The sharp edges or stringers around the holes of the beads are a normal result of the Venetian glass bead making process. Fine pieces of the glass remain on the mandrel that the bead maker uses to form the bead. They are not a defect or an imperfection, rather a sign that your bead is handmade. Learn how to file down the sharp edges with a bead reamer to help prevent the beads from cutting your stringing material and allow them to sit flush to each other. This technique also works for enlarging bead holes to allow for thicker stringing material or multiple passes of stringing material at the end of a piece.
The bead reamer comes with a handle and three different tips; a large and small reaming tip for smoothing and enlarging holes and a 45 degree edging point for smoothing and rounding the edges around the holes. Lay a towel down to protect your work surface and have a glass or bowl of water handy.
Nice choice! All or most of the products needed for this project are shown below with quantities. Sometimes we sell out of components and aren’t able to order more from the manufacturer (we know, it is very disappointing to us, too). Use the opportunity to mix up the design and make it yours by substituting similar products or altering the entire color scheme—it’s up to you!
The sharp edges or stringers around the holes of the beads are a normal result of the Venetian glass bead making process. Fine pieces of the glass remain on the mandrel that the bead maker uses to form the bead. They are not a defect or an imperfection, rather a sign that your bead is handmade. Learn how to file down the sharp edges with a bead reamer to help prevent the beads from cutting your stringing material and allow them to sit flush to each other. This technique also works for enlarging bead holes to allow for thicker stringing material or multiple passes of stringing material at the end of a piece.
The bead reamer comes with a handle and three different tips; a large and small reaming tip for smoothing and enlarging holes and a 45 degree edging point for smoothing and rounding the edges around the holes. Lay a towel down to protect your work surface and have a glass or bowl of water handy.
