Ask the Experts Tassels Q&A

How do you use ''T'' drilled beads and end beads? Also, how do you make tassels?

- Cochenour

To use a T-drilled bead and end beads like those used in power bracelets, it is helpful to use a flexible beading needle, such as a light twisted needle.

• Using chain-nose pliers, bend the needle into a right angle, toward the end
• Thread the needle with your cording
• Pass the needle into a side hole of the bead, then out of the top hole
• Use the chain-nose pliers to pull the needle through the T-shaped passage
• Repeat to thread the other end of the cording through the other side of the T-drilled bead, and both ends of the cord are exiting the bead together
• Tie a square knot with the two ends of the cording to secure

To create a tassel, pass the two ends of stringing material, emerging from the T-drilled bead through a cone shaped end bead and make a square knot holding both ends together. This will secure the beads on the stringing material as well as create a tassel end on your bracelet. To further embellish the cording, you can string beads over the cording, adding a knot at the end to secure the beads in place. Or for a easier way to make tassels for other jewelry needs, try using a Tassel Maker.