Did your beading table explode over the holidays? I’m sure as you’ve been tidying it back up 
(because I know your New Year’s resolution was to organize your beads!), you keep finding random stray beads leftover from projects that you made for gifts or holiday bazaars. And you probably think to yourself, “What on earth am I supposed to do with these random beads!” Don’t worry, there are all sorts of fun projects that you can make with those stray little buggers and you’ll even be impressed with how eclectic your jewelry will turn out! As you clean your beading table, just throw stray beads into a bin, and once you’re all done, here are a couple of project ideas you can do with them!
I whipped these earrings up with leftover crystal beads, pearls and fire polished glass beads. All it took were these fabulous mesh chandelier components. I simply slipped the beads into the mesh and stuck some ear wires on! It was so easy and the mesh detail distorts the beads just enough that you can hardly even tell that none of the beads match!
If mismatched earrings is just too much for you to handle, you can always use your leftover beads to make a one of a kind necklace! All you need to do is string some beads onto a piece of wire and turn a simple loop at either end of the wire with chain attached. It’s so easy and it gives a really vibrant, eclectic look!
Have you ever made jewelry with beads left over from finished projects? What tips do you have for creating fun, eclectic jewelry?
Have a great weekend! – Sara
leftover beads also are great for handbag charms and bookmarks!
I use very small ones in wire crocheting, but these are excellent ideas. Thanks for sharing.
Mine end up as accents on bead embroidered cuffs.
OOOOOOOOOOO CAN I BUY THEM?
My leftover beads usually end up in wirewrapped rings.
I have no leftover beads, just unexplored possibilities. Seriously though, I have a container that extra beads go into to make bead soup. Leave it in the pot long enough and something tasty always turns up.
The earrings look real cool. They are beautiful
Love it! Great idea.
I make cascading jewels earrings. Using a fine chain I attach beads that cascade down the chain. I want to make cascading jewels necklaces, but so far haven’t had the time. I love creating with leftover beads! http://jadajewel.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=188&product_id=298
I have a wide assortment of beads that I am interested in selling. I used to use them decoration around the neck of the bottle on wine bottle lamps that I used to make and sell. If you have any interest, please let me know. I have 4 boxes (bead organizing boxes that I bought from Michael’s) that I want to put on eBay. I can send you pictures of them if you are interested. Thanks
My idea was to also make a necklace some day of all the extra beads. Thanks for showing me I am not crazy.
I’ve been making similar wire mesh ear drops for several years. It’s a great way to show off left over Swarovski crystals and always elicits comments. I wore them to the Tucson Gem and Mineral show three years ago and had vendors asking me where I got them!
I like to use my leftovers in a sun catcher or dream catcher. They are very beautiful and easy to make.
Pretty ideas!
I use some of my odds and end beads in my wire wrapped cuff bracelets. I also make earrings to donate to a local shelter.
I set aside a few leftovers that are in pairs, for possible use in earrings later, then toss the rest into a jar to marinate. Like Caroline said, something will turn up! I also use them in bead mixes for wire wrap cuff bracelets, which have been a hit with my customers.
All great ideas. I am saving mine to make crochet necklaces. I do not have a web site yet but am working on it.