Favorite Bracelets to Make On a Bead Loom
Bead looms are incredibly useful tools when it comes to creating patterned beadwork. The traditional beading technique is versatile and allows you to make nearly any design you can think of, from graphic patterns to symbols and motifs. We’ve compiled five of our favorite bead loom bracelet patterns along with some handy tips to get you started on the loom.
Above: Desert Sky Loomed Bracelet by Lindsay Burke
To get started, you will first need a bead loom of your choice. Each loom is different depending on the brand, whether that be in size, assembly, and the amount of thread you will need to use in order to complete your project. Please note, if you are using the loom to create a bracelet, it is easiest if your loom is at least 9” in length. If the loom is shorter, you will need to stitch two loomed pieces together to make your bracelet. If you do not have a bead loom, no worries! Bead looms can even be made from cardboard. Bead loom projects require beads, thread, a clasp of your choice, scissors, and your preferred needle.
Related: Four Best Threads for Bead Weaving
Bead Loom Tips
The technique is easy once you get the hang of it, and you will work row by row.
Julianna Avelar, inventor of the Jewel Loom and one of Interweave’s Top 20 Beading and Jewelry Artists of 2022, has a few helpful tips that will be beneficial to know before starting your projects. The first tip is important for everyone, but especially for people who are used to beading without a loom: “If you’re an off-loom beader, forget what you know about beading!” Using a bead loom is different than beading without one, as your needle goes through the beads in a line, not stitching through them to form a motif.
The second tip seems obvious but can be difficult to remember when you’re caught up in the excitement of the project: Take your time and read your instructions thoroughly. This will save you trouble and time down the line. Julianna says, “Have faith in the pattern you are following.”
Lastly, make sure that you remove your loom projects gently and finish them with your preferred clasp. Julianna recommends a slide clasp for ease.
Favorite Bead Loom Bracelet Patterns
Free Spirit Bracelet
Don’t be intimidated by pictorial motifs! The Free Spirit Bracelet, by Lindsay Burke, highlights an eye-catching feather with a simple background. This quick and easy project will be sure to become one of your favorites.
Desert Sky Loomed Bracelet
Not all bead loom bracelets have to be straightforward—literally! The Desert Sky Loomed Bracelet, created by Lindsay Burke, has a subtle undulating wave pattern at its outer edges. The bracelet uses natural hues with a pop of blue and features a slide clasp with extension chain to ensure it fits any wrist.
Arizona Sky Bracelet
Add a twist to a classic pattern with the Arizona Sky Bracelet by Lindsay Burke. This bracelet is inspired by the Arizona sky and is a fun way to incorporate the neon trend into your wardrobe. A hook clasp makes for easy application.
Loomed Illusion Bracelet
The Loomed Illusion Bracelet by Susan Pelligra is a fun project that teases the eyes once complete. The optical illusion comes simply from following the bead looming pattern.
Missoni-Inspired Loom Bracelet
The Missoni-Inspired Loom Bracelet by Lindsay Burke features a trendy chevron design, perfect for any outfit. You can bead this bracelet in any colorway, and it’s simple to substitute beads in your favorite colors.
Bead loom bracelets are fun projects to make. With these useful tips, you’ll be using a bead loom in no time, further growing your bracelet collection. We hope you enjoy these patterns as much as we do.
Bead Loom Techniques + Projects
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Beadwork Favorites: Bead Loom Bracelet Pattern Collection
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Desert Sky Loomed Bracelet Pattern Download
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Loomed Illusion Bracelet Pattern Download
$7.99$2.40 -
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Free Spirit Bracelet Pattern Download
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Getting Started Bead Weaving Series: Learn How to Bead on a Loom Online Workshop featuring Tammy Honaman
$24.99$7.50 -
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Missoni-Inspired Loom Bracelet Pattern Download
$7.99$2.40 -
Sale!
Arizona Sky Bracelet Pattern Download
$7.99$2.40
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