Since the origin of waist beads in Africa, these fashion items have grown prominent worldwide. They are used to adorn a woman’s body and are a great way to explore your inner creative spirit. The Yoruba and Asante women wore waist beads in the past to symbolize wealth and dignity. Today, women primarily wear waist beads as a fashion accessory.
Before diving into your inner creativity, you must know the correct type of string used to make African waist beads. This article will discuss the best strings for African waist beads and why they’re the best.
Table of Contents
What kind of thread is Used For waist beads?
The good thing about waist beads is that they are easy to make. Waist beads can be made with any string; as long as beads can fit into the string, it doesn’t mean you should use just any string. Three major thread types are popular in Africa:
Elastic Cord > find it here
An elastic cord is a soft, comfortable thread that can stretch. This thread is very popular for making beads due to its effortless manipulation. Making waist beads with an elastic cord involves locking both ends of the thread with a crimp bead or tying the ends tightly together.
Clear Cord > find it here
A transparent cord is a standard fishing line used in bead making. Waist beads made from clear cords are perfect if you want to watch your body weight. Unlike the elastic thread, this does not stretch or move with your body. The ends of the line are locked in with bead clasps.
Cotton Thread > find it here
Cotton threads are soft, white threads that come in different sizes. It’s in the middle between an elastic cord and a clear line because it’s not too stretchy or firm. The two ends of the thread can be tied together and kept secure with a burning process, burning the ends when they are tied together.
Different brands of threads are available in the market for bead making. The important thing is to select light, comfortable, and high-quality materials from the bunch.
What Is The Strongest Thread For Waist Beads?
Waist beads made from elastic Cord, transparent Cord, and even cotton thread can and will likely break at some stage. The most robust and durable thread for tie-on waist beads is a quality Nylon Cord like the Mandala Craft 1mm. The nylon cord is different because it would require a pull before it falls off.
Depending on the size of waist beads you want, you can use a corresponding thickness. I recommended that you roll two or more nylon cords on top of each other before beading; this makes the waist bead more robust.
What Are African Waist Beads Made Of?
African waist beads are made of glass beads on a string or thread. They come in different colors, shapes, and sizes. Apart from the beads, crystals, stones, and charms link African women to their cultures. In some African cultures like Asante and Krobo, women wear bells and waist beads once they reach puberty.
African waist beads are made regularly, but they symbolize womanhood, femininity, sensuality, and spiritual well-being.
What Materials Do I Need To Make Waist Beads?
- String/thread
- Beads, decorated stones, charms
- Crimp beads
- Lobster clasps
- Bead stopper
- Wirecutter
- Lighter to burn the ends of your tie-in waist beads.
Conclusion
It’s no wonder African waist beads have become so popular since their inception. These elegant fashion pieces that can be worn in or out of your clothes have secured global recognition. You can buy ready-made waist beads or make them from scratch yourself.
The straightforward way to know whether a string will work for you is to try it out. I recommend you keep trying until you get the desired string material for your waist bead. But don’t fret; waist beads are worth the wait!
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