💜 Why should I wax my beading thread?
💜 What wax should I use?
💜 What’s the difference between wax and thread conditioner?
💜 How to wax your thread
These are questions I get asked a lot! In this blog and video I’ll guide you through this and answer these questions.
Why should I wax my beading thread?
The easy answer is; it makes it easier to bead with and strengthens your beadwork!
If you’re working with a thread such as One-G, KO or Miyuki thread (my threads of choice) then I often recommend waxing your thread. I also recommend it if you use Nymo. If you work with FireLine then there’s no need to wax your thread!
Waxing your thread helps reduce knots and will help stiffen your work – this is particularly helpful if you have a looser tension or want to make a rigid piece of beadwork such as one of my self-supporting Yoake bottle, or a brick stitch charm.
What wax should I use?
As a vegan, I prefer to use a synthetic wax, but natural beeswax is also an option. These can be bought in pots or containers, and are available from many beading stores. One pot will last you a long while! However a (new) tea light candle will also do the trick nicely.
As you can see in the video my wax is pretty old and embellished with beads from my mat, but it still does the trick.
Beading wax top tips
- If you buy yours in one of the flexible plastic pots I suggest removing the plastic pot. The plastic splits over time and then catches and snags your thread
- I took mine out of the pot and cut it in half with a sturdy kitchen knife – now I have two!
- It’s possible to buy wax in rigid plastic bobbin containers with slits in the side. This is a great way to keep your wax tidy (and unembellished!)
- Don’t leave your wax on your mat or with beading projects in direct sunlight or warm places. While it won’t melt dramatically it can stick itself to your projects, getting wax into all sorts of crevices! (I speak from experience!)
What’s the difference between wax and thread conditioner?
This is important: Wax and thread conditioner are NOT the same thing! A wax such as synthetic wax or beeswax will prevent knots and will stiffen your work. While a conditioner such as Thread Heaven will only prevent knots. Thread conditioner will condition your thread, making it easier to work with and less likely to knot. This makes it ideal for flowing projects such as ropes, flexible bracelets or projects where you want it to be supple. Wax in this instance is not the right choice.
How to wax your thread
Once you have cut your length of thread and stretched it, then you simply take your wax, press the thread into the wax with your thumb and draw the thread through it. Repeat this once more. Run the thread through your fingers to remove any excess wax. Then you are ready to bead!
Watch this in action in my video.
