Thread: Best way to reinforce beading without redoing it?

Just received a costume in trade and although I love it.... it has more wear on it than I initially expected. Several of the bead strands demonstrate "stretch" on the thread that makes me suspicious they may break if I leave them (in fact one broke off just before shipment). I would like not to have to take them off completely... is there a way to run a new thread along the old one to reinforce? I bought some beading needles but though I would ask before I tried trial and error. Thanks for any help out there. Aunna

I would just run thread through the existing beadwork where needed to reinforce it. Just tie a knot and anchor your thread, then run it through the beads that need reinforcing and anchor again on the other end. I've done this before with costumes that were a little worn. Sometimes it can be hard to run a needle through small seed beads and bugle beads that already have thread in them, so use the smallest needle possible.

Originally Posted by shahla

I would just run thread through the existing beadwork where needed to reinforce it. Just tie a knot and anchor your thread, then run it through the beads that need reinforcing and anchor again on the other end. I've done this before with costumes that were a little worn. Sometimes it can be hard to run a needle through small seed beads and bugle beads that already have thread in them, so use the smallest needle possible.

What she said!

In theory, double stringing shouldn't be a problem, but you may want to watch that adding the extra thread doesn't compromise the movement. I think I would be tempted to cut the older thread out while restringing (i.e., string it halfway, snip the old thread away, then finish the strand), but it's hard to say without seeing the situation in person.

Firemountain & Amazon have bead stringing needles. They are fine twisted wire used by jewelers to string pearls and beads. The needles aren't sturdy enough to pierce most fabrics...they bend very easily and are only for creating bead strands. You might even be able to pick some up at your local craft/hobby store if they have a beading/jewelry making section.


http://www.amazon.com/Assorted-Large...2488552&sr=8-3

Dawn

Thank you all so much. Most of the ones I am really worried about are the hanging strands. I will give it a go though. I think I may have one of the twisty beading needles somewhere but I did buy some straight ones for trying the hanging strands. Wish me luck and thanks for the help!

Initially very positive trial! I was able to reinforce some hanging beads on the bra, add back part of a swag and reinforce two arm cuffs that were threatening to unwind! I won't be convinced until I finish and dance hard in it but used a beading needle (wow those are weird and a bit slippery to grab but really work!) with a line of upholstery thread. I am really elated about the whole new skill and may even be inspired to add more bling to some costumes later. Thank you all so much for the encouragement and help!

Originally Posted by AunnaBarika

Just received a costume in trade and although I love it.... it has more cheap anklets to wear on it than I initially expected. Several of the bead strands demonstrate "stretch" on the thread that makes me suspicious they may break if I leave them (in fact one broke off just before shipment). I would like not to have to take them off completely... is there a way to run a new thread along the old one to reinforce? I bought some beading needles but though I would ask before I tried trial and error. Thanks for any help out there. Aunna

I want to say that they must be break if you want to destroy it.