Pearl and Seed Bead Beaded Bow Tutorial | Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and creativity to your jewelry collection? Look no further than this seed bead and pearl beaded bow tutorial. Picture yourself crafting intricate bows that will elevate your designs to a whole new level. In this tutorial, we will guide you through each step of the process, from gathering your beads and supplies to adding those finishing touches that make your piece truly unique. Whether you’re a seasoned beader or just getting started, this tutorial is sure to inspire your creativity. So let’s dive in and discover how to create stunning beaded bows that will leave everyone in awe.

Pearls and bows seem to be a steady trend for 2024 and this tutorial combines both. I myself seem to have succumbed to this trend and now own clothing with cute bow designs to wear with the pearl drop earrings I recently made for myself. I think the combination of dainty bows with the timeless elegance of pearls offers such a feminine addition to my jewellery collection and I am here for it.

I have added the YouTube video at the bottom of this post. I cover knotting the threads in more detail on there as well as showing how to make the ribbon lengths in more detail.

Beads and Supplies

To create your own beautiful seed bead and pearl bow necklace, you’ll need to gather a few key supplies.

You will need –

• Size 8 seed beads
• 1 x 8mm pearl ( in a colour to match with the seed beads)
• Beading Thread
• A beading needle
• 4 x 6mm Jump rings
• 1 x Chain
• 1 x Clasp

How To Make a Seed Bead and Pearl Bow

Step 1 –

1. Cut a long length of beading thread (about 55″) and pick up the 8mm pearl followed by 20 size 8 seed beads leaving a good tail thread.
2. Take the needle back through the seed bead nearest the pearl and the pearl.
3. Pull the thread through and the seed beads will form a loop on top of the pearl.
4. Repeat 1 – 3 again so that the second side matches the first.

Step 2 –

1. Exiting out the seed bead on top of the pearl, take the needle up through the next seed bead along.
2. Pick up 5 more seed beads and take the needle through the 9th seed bead around the loop.
3. Take your needle through the next seed bead in the loop.
4. Pick up 5 more size 8 seed beads and take the needle into the last seed bead in the loop, moving towards the pearl.

Step 3 –

1. Take the needle through the seed bead at the end of the pearl, the pearl and the seed bead on the other side of the pearl.
2. Repeat 1 – 4 in step 2 again so that the second loop matches.
3. Take the needle through the seed bead on top of the pearl and out the other side of the pearl (but not through the seed bead on the other side).
4. Pick up 2 size 8 seed beads and take the needle down into the third seed bead at the bottom of the bow loop.

Step 4 –

1. Pick up six size 8 seed beads and take needle back up through the second to last seed bead on the thread. Pull the thread tight so that the last bead acts as a stopper bead.
2. Pick up two more size 8 seed beads and take them down to the other beads. Take the needle back through the bead nearest the previously added beads and pull so that the last bead acts as a stopper bead. This is forming the cute ‘v’ end of the bow ribbon.
3. Pick up one more seed bead and take the needle down through the third to last seed bead on the opposite side (the needle is moving away from the bow shape).
4. Take the needle and thread across and back up into the seed bead you originally exited from.

Step 5 –

1. Repeat 3 – 4 of step 4 three more times and then pick up one seed bead and take the needle into the seed bead at the bottom of the loop, sitting nearest to the loop.
2. Take the needle through the pearl.
3. Pick up two more seed beads and take the needle into the third seed bead in the beaded loop.
4. Repeat so that the second side matches the first. Tie several knots in your thread, both the working thread and tail thread, through out the beading. This will help reinforce the shape of the bow and help the beads sit better. Cut off any excess thread.

I have added 6mm gold plated jump rings to each side of my bow to make it into a quirky necklace pendant.

Finishing Touches and Variations

To truly make your seed bead and pearl bow design your own, consider adding some finishing touches and variations. You can incorporate different colors of seed beads and pearls to create a more vibrant or subtle look. Experiment with different patterns and sizes of beads to add texture and dimension to your bow. Additionally, you can include other embellishments such as charms, crystals, or even tassels to make your bow even more unique.

Mastering making seed bead and pearl beaded bows opens up endless possibilities for your jewelry-making skills. With the right supplies and techniques, you can unleash your creativity and produce stunning pieces that will impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and variations to truly make your creations stand out.

Seed Bead and Pearl Beaded Bow Video Tutorial

I hope I have inspired you to fill your jewelry boxes full of beautiful bows.

Hannah x