What is loom beading?

Loom beading is a way of weaving seed beads into flat bands of fabric using a small bead loom. Long threads called warp threads are stretched along the loom, and each row of beads is woven across them with a single working thread, called the weft. The beads sit in a neat grid, so any chart made of squares can be turned into a beaded design. That makes loom beading ideal for bracelets, bookmarks, hatbands, lanyards and belts.

Loom beading is faster than off-loom stitches like peyote or brick stitch, because you add a whole row at a time. It’s also a great first beading project. If you can count beads and thread a needle, you can make a loom bracelet.

What you need for this daisy bracelet

• A bead loom. Any beginner loom that fits a 21 cm project will do.
• Delica 11/0 seed beads in black, white and yellow. Delicas are cylinder beads that are very even in size, so your rows stay straight and your edges stay neat.
• Beading thread, such as Nymo, KO or One-G, in a colour that blends with your beads.
• A long beading needle, size 10 or 12.
• A clasp for finishing, such as a slide clasp or end bars.
• Scissors and a bead mat to stop beads rolling away.

How to follow a loom beading pattern

1. Warp the loom. Count the beads in one row and add one. This pattern is 12 beads wide, so you need 13 warp threads.
2. Pick up the first row. Thread the beads for Row 1 in the order shown, reading left to right.
3. Push the beads up between the warp threads from underneath, so there is one bead in each gap.
4. Pass back through the beads above the warp threads to lock the row in place.
5. Repeat for each row, ticking them off as you go so you never lose your place.
6. Finish the ends by weaving the warp threads back into the work, or by attaching end bars or a clasp.

Tips for neat loom beadwork

• Keep your tension even. Pull each row snug but not tight, or the band will curl.
• Check your count often. The solid black rows in this pattern are handy checkpoints.
• Measure early. Weave 10 rows and measure them to confirm how long your finished bracelet will be.
• Use a thread conditioner to help stop tangles and fraying.

Loom beading FAQ

What size beads are best for loom beading?
Size 11/0 seed beads are the most popular. Delica cylinder beads give the neatest result because they’re so uniform. Round seed beads also work, but they make a slightly softer, more textured band.

How many warp threads do I need?
Always one more than the number of beads in a row. A 12-bead-wide pattern needs 13 warp threads.

How long does a loom bracelet take to make?
A 21 cm bracelet in Delicas takes most beaders somewhere between 4 and 8 hours, depending on experience.

Can I use a loom beading pattern for other projects?
Yes. Loom patterns also work for square stitch, which gives the same grid of beads without a loom. Stretch the design by repeating sections to make a longer piece, like a hatband or belt.

Is loom beading good for beginners?
Yes. It’s one of the easiest beading techniques to learn, and a simple three-colour pattern like this daisy chain is a great first project.