Choose Your Tools

I recently informally polled about 150 beaders to find out which tool they consider most critical. My question: What tool do you consider most important, and what type of beadwork do you consider your specialty? My sample group consisted of bead makers, seed beaders, wire workers, mixed-media enthusiasts and metal workers. From the beginning, I have had my own ideas about what people would name, but I ended up being surprised and educated by the results.

Bead Stringers

Chain-nose pliers were the top contender among stringers. Most stringers use basic tools but mentioned the importance of having a varied inventory of beads and supplies. Having at least two different weights of flexible stringing wire is important, but not as key as always having plenty of crimps on hand in silver, gold, copper and brass.

Seed Beaders

Seed beaders work with a simple set of tools that usually consists of a needle, thread, a work surface and beads. Also, lighting, magnification and a good awl for removing knots were mentioned by almost every seed beader who responded. Each seed beader has a favorite type of work surface and brand of needle, but I noticed that portability is a key factor when choosing a work surface. One particular work-surface pad came up frequently, the Deluxe Bead Traveler, which can be found at Designer's Findings.

Wire Workers

After 15 years of beading, you should see my collection of tools. I own at least 25 different pliers, eight flush cutters and five types of hammers. As an overall group, wire workers are obsessed with tools, most notably pliers. In my poll, chain-nose pliers came up No. 1, followed by round-nose pliers. The other major player was a good pair of flush cutters. A clean, even cut really makes a difference, especially when working with heavy gauges of wire.

Metalsmiths

Folks who like to fuse, solder, bezel and otherwise indulge in metal arts have a different set of needs than seed beaders or wire workers. One item came up frequently: a pair of bent chain-nose pliers used for holding objects. Another popular item was the Blazer Micro Torch. Unlike a creme brulee torch, which browns the tops of desserts and impresses guests, a Blazer has a very precise tip, uses a moderate amount of butane, and burns for a long time.

The exotic items from my poll are as follows: a safety pin, a vacuum cleaner for cleaning up after beading (my husband's response), and mandrels for making beads, coils and jump rings. My favorite response overall was from my friend Liz, who said her brain is what allows her to bead. Of course, Liz is right. Your brain, eyes, hands and creativity are your most important tools no matter what type of beading you enjoy.