Summary:
In this blog post, I will tell you how to make beaded pens, which are pens decorated with colorful beads. These pens are fun to make and can be personalized with different patterns and charms. I'll guide you step-by-step, even if you're just starting out. You'll learn about different designs like free pen wrap patterns and beaded pen cover patterns. Plus, I'll share some tips from my own experiences, both good and bad, to help you create beautiful beaded pens.
Introduction:
Have you ever seen a pen so pretty that it makes you want to write more? That’s the magic of beaded pens! Beaded pens are regular pens that get a makeover with beads. People love them because they’re not just useful for writing; they're also a way to show off your style. You can use different colors, sizes, and types of beads to create unique designs. Making beaded pens is a fun and easy craft that anyone can do. Whether you want to make them for yourself, as gifts, or even to sell (beaded pens for sale), beaded pens are a fantastic project. Let’s get started on how to make beaded pens and explore some amazing beaded pens patterns!
What You Need to Make Beaded Pens
Before we start, let's gather everything we need. This will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a list of supplies:
- Pens: The most common type of pen used for beading is a Papermate InkJoy gel pen because it’s easy to take apart. But you can use any pen that can be taken apart.
- Beads: You can use any beads you like, but the most common sizes are 11/0 or 8/0 seed beads. You’ll need a variety of colors to create different patterns.
- Beading Wire or Stretch Cord: This is what you’ll use to string the beads onto the pen. Stretch cord is great for easy-on, easy-off designs.
- Scissors or Wire Cutters: To cut the beading wire or stretch cord.
- Beading Needle (optional): This can make threading the beads easier, especially with smaller beads.
- Ruler or Measuring Tape: To measure the length of the pen and the amount of wire or cord you need.
- Charms (optional): To add extra flair to your pens.
- Pliers (optional): To help with attaching charms or tightening wire.
Having all these supplies ready will make your beading experience much smoother. Now, let’s get to the fun part creating our beaded pen patterns!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beaded Pens
Okay, let’s get started! Follow these steps to create your own unique beaded pens. If you're a beginner, don't worry; it's easier than you think! There are lots of beaded pens patterns for beginners you can try.
Step 1: Removing the pen casing
First, carefully take apart the pen. Most pens can be unscrewed or pulled apart. Remove the ink cartridge from the pen casing. You'll only be decorating the outer casing, so set the ink cartridge aside for now.
The first time I tried this, I accidentally broke a pen! Some pens are tougher to take apart than others, so be gentle. If it doesn’t come apart easily, try a different pen. It taught me to be more careful!
Step 2: Measuring and Cutting the Wire or Cord
Next, measure the length of the pen casing that you want to cover with beads. Cut a piece of beading wire or stretch cord that is about 6-8 inches longer than the measured length. This gives you extra room to work with and tie off the ends.
I once cut the cord too short and had to start over. Make sure you have enough length to comfortably work with! It was frustrating, but I learned my lesson.
Step 3: Stringing the Beads
Now comes the fun part: stringing the beads! If you’re using a beading needle, thread it onto one end of the wire or cord. Start adding beads one by one, creating your desired pattern. You can follow free pen wrap patterns or come up with your own design.
- For beginners, simple patterns like alternating colors or stripes are a great way to start. You can find inspiration from beaded bracelet pattern ideas.
- For more advanced designs, you can try complex patterns or even add beaded pens with charms.
I tried a complicated pattern on my first pen, and it was a mess! Start with something simple and build from there. Also, using a beading needle really helps, especially with tiny beads. It made the process so much easier.
Step 4: Fitting the Beaded Cover onto the Pen
Once you’ve strung enough beads to cover the length of the pen casing, carefully slide the beaded strand onto the pen. Make sure the beads fit snugly and cover the entire casing.
- If you’re using a stretch cord, this should be easy. Just stretch the cord and slide it over the pen.
- If you’re using beading wire, you may need to gently push the beads into place.
Sometimes, the beads didn’t fit perfectly, and there were gaps. To fix this, I added a few extra beads or rearranged the pattern slightly. It’s all about making it look just right.
Step 5: Securing the Beads
If you’re using a stretch cord, tie the ends together in a tight knot. Trim any excess cord. For beading wire, you’ll need to secure the ends using a crimp bead or by tying a secure knot and tucking the ends into the beadwork.
I had a knot come undone once, and all the beads scattered! Make sure your knot is super secure, or use a crimp bead for extra security. I learned to double-knot everything!
Step 6: Reassembling the Pen
Finally, carefully reinsert the ink cartridge into the decorated pen casing. Make sure everything fits back together properly. Your beaded pen is now ready to use!
Sometimes, the ink cartridge was hard to push back in because the beads added extra bulk. Be patient and gently wiggle it until it fits. It might take a few tries, but you'll get there.
Beaded Pens Pattern Ideas
Need some inspiration? Here are a few beaded bracelet pattern ideas adapted for pens:
- Stripes: Use alternating colors to create simple yet stylish stripes.
- Polka Dots: Add small clusters of beads in different colors for a fun, playful look.
- Floral Patterns: Use different shades of green for the stem and leaves, and bright colors for the flowers.
- Geometric Designs: Create patterns with triangles, squares, and other shapes using different colored beads.
- Spiral Patterns: Wind the beads around the pen in a spiral for a dynamic look.
You can also find many beaded pens patterns online, including beaded pens patterns pdf and beaded pens patterns free. There are also beaded pen cover patterns if you want to make a cover for the pen.
Tips for Beginners
- Start Simple: Don’t try to tackle complicated designs right away. Simple patterns can be just as beautiful.
- Use a Beading Needle: This will make stringing the beads much easier, especially with smaller beads.
- Choose Quality Beads: Cheap beads may have inconsistent sizes and colors, which can affect the overall look of your pen.
- Secure Your Knots: Make sure your knots are tight and secure to prevent the beads from coming loose.
- Be Patient: Beading can be time-consuming, so be patient and enjoy the process.
Adding Charms to Beaded Pens
To add beaded pens with charms, simply attach a small charm to the end of the pen using a jump ring. Pliers can be helpful for opening and closing the jump ring securely.
Beaded Pen Cover Patterns
For a different approach, you can create beaded pen cover patterns that slide over the entire pen. These covers can be made using various beading techniques, such as peyote stitch or brick stitch. You can find many tutorials online for how to make beaded pen covers.
FAQs
Q1: What kind of beads should I use for beaded pens?
Ans: You can use any beads you like, but 11/0 or 8/0 seed beads are the most common sizes.
Q2: How do I secure the beads on the pen?
Ans: If you’re using a stretch cord, tie the ends together in a tight knot. For beading wire, use a crimp bead or tie a secure knot and tuck the ends into the beadwork.
Q3: What if the ink cartridge is hard to reinsert after beading?
Ans: Gently wiggle the ink cartridge until it fits. You may need to adjust the beads slightly to create more room.