Beaded Fringe: 6 Ways To Make Stunning Jewelry

Explore the six types of beaded fringe that you can add to dress up boring pieces of jewelry.

Beaded fringe is an ornamental border often added along the edges of jewelry, bags or clothing.

This decorative element is great for two reasons.

First, it amps up the design. Adding beaded fringe is a simple way to embellish jewelry, yet it can make a big impact. It can be as understated or over-the-top as you want it to be.

Secondly, fringe hides threads. There are some bead weaving techniques where you just can’t hide the thread, especially along the sides of a piece. This is a good opportunity to add some fringe.

There are several types of beaded fringe that you can add to a piece of jewelry. Below is a list of the different variations.

6 Types of Beaded Fringe

1. Straight Fringe

Straight fringe is the simplest type of fringe you can add to your jewelry. It consists of individual strands of beads typically found hanging in a straight line.

This fringe can be as long or short as you desire and can all be the same length. Here are a few ways to add a little more interest:

• Vary the number of beads in each strand to create an angled or V-shaped design.
• Use a combination of bead colors, sizes and shapes.
• Add multiple rows of straight fringe for a layered look.

If you want to ensure your straight fringe has movement, use heavier beads e.g. crystals that will sway. If using seed beads, you’ll probably have to increase the length of the strands. Bugle beads also look great in this type of fringe.

2. Picot Fringe

A picot embellishment uses three beads to form a pretty finish along the edge(s) of your beadwork.

This type of fringe is perfect for hiding threads and adds a decorative touch without being overwhelming.

Typically, you create a picot using tiny beads like seed beads. You can add a different color and/or bead size in the middle for an extra flair.

3. Looped Fringe

Looped fringe is another simple way to add a bit of panache to your beadwork. It consists of multiple loops of beads.

This type of beaded fringe can be as long as you want and can be made more interesting by introducing various bead types, shapes and colors. Another option is to change up the sizes of the loops.

4. Twisted Fringe

Twisted fringe is a variation of looped fringe where each loop of beads is wrapped around itself.

This type of beaded fringe is a little more challenging to make. You need to twist the beading thread and maintain that twist while you secure your thread in the beadwork.

Below is a tutorial for how to make twisted fringe:

One downside to creating twisted fringe is that you’re more likely to knot your thread. Here’s how you can minimize tangled beading thread.

5. Coral Fringe

Coral fringe, also known as branch fringe is a beautiful and unique embellishment. It’s made by adding several branches off of individual strands of straight fringe.

Branch fringe is more full-bodied than other kinds of fringe and adds an organic texture to any beadwork project. It’s a great option for natural or sea-themed pieces because it looks just like… well, branches or coral.

6. Leaf Fringe

Another way to add a natural ornamental touch to your jewelry is by using leaf fringe.

To make this type of fringe, simply add a small loop to the bottom of a strand of straight fringe.

Alternatively, you can create several branches just like coral fringe and add a loop at the end of each branch. This will give a fuller appearance.

You have so many beaded fringe options that you can add to a piece of jewelry. The next time you work on a beading project, try adding one of these variations.