Basic Bead Crochet

Getting started in bead crochet is not only fun and easy, but you can make an entire piece of jewelry or decoration by knowing just ONE stitch: the basic crochet chain stitch! This stitch can be combined with a variety of different bead styles, colors, and shapes.

The main technique involves “trapping” the bead inside crochet chains, or on the crochet loop itself.

Below is an overview of a few different projects you can try with Linhasita cord, both 1mm or 0.5mm. The thickness of the cord you use is up to you, but it should be noted that thicker cord should often be combined with larger beads, so that the beads do not slip inside the crochet loop.

Crochet with basic beads - prestrung:

Pre-string your beads, in order, onto a length of Linhasita cord. You can precut your cord or only cut when you are finished.

Make a slip knot with the end of the Linhasita cord. Make sure the long tail of the Linhasita cord, where the beads are strung, is the end that can pull the slip knot tight.

Insert your crochet hook into the slip knot, pull the loop until it is snug but not tight around the hook, and begin making as many chains as you wish before you begin using the beads.

Next, push one other pre-strung beads to the base of the loop on your hook. Crochet the next chain as usual over the bead, such that you trap the bead on the back ‘bump’ of the chain.

Continue in this fashion, adding as few or as many chains in between beads are you like, until you’ve used all the pre-strung beads or feel your creation is complete. Finish with your preferred clasp.

Looking for a fast and easy project? Grab a Matubo bead mix, pre-string the beads in random order, and crochet a wrap bracelet!

Design as you go with large-hole beads:

The chain stitch can also be used in a second method without pre-stringing the beads, allowing you to design as you go. This method uses donut beads with a large hole, but any large hole beads could work.

You begin the same way with a slip knot and a few beginning chains, and then you simply make one chain through the donut hole, and then on the outer edge of the donut, to trap the bead firmly.

Keep going in this fashion using a variety of beads. Add a clasp for an instant bracelet or necklace!