Books and magazines are fantastic sources of information and instruction for the beader – but there is nothing quite like watching techniques being demonstrated in real time. Ideally you’d be sat with an instructor, or at a class watching as they work. However this just isn't possible for everyone and help is at hand for those beaders who are looking to improve their skills but unable to take a class. Popular video sharing websites offer a rich source of information for the wire and bead jewelry maker.
In case you haven't noticed, video sharing websites aren't all about family out-takes and cute kitten videos! They can also offer a valuable and extensive information resource for wire and bead jewelers. A quick search through one of the video sharing websites will return you videos on different techniques (both at beginner level and more advanced), examples of finished pieces and even related subjects like glass bead making and using precious metal clay.
One of the great things about watching beading videos on the internet (besides the fact they are free!) is that you can stop and rewind, and also make notes as you go. It is also easy to flick between videos to see how different people approach a technique if required. Being short digital videos it is easy too to move forward and backwards without having to keep rewinding the film, and of course you can book mark or save as ‘favorites’ all the videos you find particularly useful and compile your own personal video library.
There are many different producers of free beadmaking videos on the internet, including enthusiastic amateurs, semi professionals and professional designers and tutors. One prolific video producer is Karla from Aunties Beads. Karla has made and published a range of videos on many different techniques and ‘how to’ guides explaining how to make different jewelry items. These include making a wire wrap bracelet, chain earrings and pearl knotting. Even an experienced beader and jewelry maker will find these useful.
Some beaders use video sharing and picture hosting websites as a gallery to showcase their jewelry, perhaps to support their website or blog. This can be another great way to promote yourself and your work. If you have some jewelry or other beaded items completed which you could video and present in a short film, or a technique you would like to share, why not prepare a video. The key to a good ‘beading’ video is to ensure that it is clear and that you get some close-ups of your work and the beads. Remember to take it in a good light. You will notice that some videos are a bit ‘fuzzy’ and unfortunately however good the work is that is being filmed – if the video isn’t clear and enjoyable people will quickly flick onto the next one.
Hopefully this will have whet your appetite. Why not equip yourself with a mug of coffee (or glass of wine) and take a look at the beading videos on the internet and seek inspiration for your next project!
There are a variety of video sharing websites available which are free to join - amongst these are YouTube.com and Google Video.
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