If you have been beading for quite a while then you probably have no problem creating all sorts of beautiful jewelry with different kinds of beads. But if you are relatively new to the hobby then you might not be too sure where and how to start, since the variety of beads available can be quite overwhelming.

There are acrylic beads, glass beads, plastic beads, shell beads and jewelry beads - just to name a few. Pearl beads come in all shapes and colors, and the look can be so realistic that even an inexpensive bead necklace you made over a weekend will look like an expensive piece of jewelry - if it is done correctly.

The best way to make an attractive pearl bead necklace is to stick to a simple string design. If you want the piece to look more elaborate you can always combine multiple layered strings later on or add some vertical strings. Start by designing the pattern you want on a piece of paper, deciding if you want to repeat it over and over, or if you would prefer a symmetrical design.

For a symmetrical pattern you would start out by stringing the middle pearl first, adding the respective pearl beads to complete the pattern on each side. Make sure that you tie a big knot in one end, so the beads don't fall out while you work on completing the other side. You will want to be able to open the knot back up, though, as you will have to add the hook and clasp. To make the necklace look spectacular choose an eye catching center piece that is accentuated by using simpler beads around it, or choose a center piece that harmonizes in color with the rest of them. As an example, you could have a dark blue bead in the center and then slowly graduate the color to a lighter blue. Then repeat this effect with a complementing color on another string that is slightly longer or shorter. When you are finished you will tie both strings to the clasp, creating a beautiful multi-strand necklace with a tiered look of corresponding colors.

Making a necklace with a repeated pattern is a lot easier, as you can start by attaching the hook or clasp firmly on either side, and then start stringing your beads along without having to worry about them falling out the other end. To avoid the necklace looking boring combine different sizes, shapes and colors of beads, as well as different materials. Depending on your personal style you can make the necklace look as mixed up as possible for a truly eye-catching piece, or you can create an elegant, understated look with jewelry beads.

Overall you will find that jewelry beading is a very enjoyable hobby, easy to get started and not difficult to learn, regardless if you consider yourself crafty or not. And the best part is that it is not expensive at all.