What are heishi clay beads?

Summary

In this blog, I will tell you that these beads are a versatile, lightweight, and stylish material perfect for all kinds of crafting projects, especially jewelry making. Whether you buy them or make them from polymer clay, these beads are easy to work with and allow for endless creative possibilities. They are ideal for beginner crafters and can be used in a variety of designs, from bracelets and necklaces to keychains and more. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant bead to work with, I highly recommend giving these beads a try!

What Are Heishi Clay Beads?

These are tiny, flat, disk-like beads crafted from clay. They are widely used in jewelry making and other crafts because of their lightweight and versatile nature. I discovered these beads during my early craft projects and found them to be a perfect fit for my beaded pen covers and bracelets. Their smooth, rounded design makes them ideal for creating elegant pieces.

What Makes them Unique?

1. Flat and circular shape: They are distinct from other types of beads due to their unique shape, which allows for symmetrical designs.
2. Smooth texture: They add a sleek and modern feel to any project.
3. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes: These beads are easy to find in many different colors, which lets you create custom designs.
4. Perfect for layering and mixing: They can be mixed with larger beads or used to create simple, single-strand designs.

I personally love using them for jewelry making because of their flexibility and the subtle texture they provide to my creations.

Benefits:

Lightweight and comfortable to wear: I’ve made necklaces and bracelets with these beads, and they were surprisingly light, making them ideal for daily wear.

1. Durable: I made keychains using heishi beads, and they held up well over time without fading or breaking.
2. Easy to work with: Whether you’re a beginner or experienced crafter, these beads are simple to thread onto wire or string.
3. Affordable: I always find them at reasonable prices, so they are great for anyone on a budget but still wanting to create high-quality crafts.

For Jewelry Making

Jewelry making is one of the easiest ways to create stylish pieces. Here's why:

1. Ideal for beginners: These beads are simple to work with, making them great for people just starting out.
2. Mix and match with other materials: I like to combine these beads with silicone beads or gemstones to create unique designs.
3. Perfect for layering: Whether you want a chunky, layered look or a delicate single strand, these beads fit well in any style of jewelry.

When I made my first bracelet with these beads, I was amazed at how effortlessly the beads came together into a beautiful design.

From Polymer Clay

Many beads are made from polymer clay, which is a type of moldable clay that becomes hard once baked. Making your own beads from polymer clay can be a fun and creative process. Here's how:

1. Customization: I love making personalized beads by rolling polymer clay, flattening it, and cutting it into thin disks.
2. Durability: Polymer clay is strong, making it perfect for creating lasting jewelry pieces.
3. Easy to shape: Clay can be easily molded to your preferred shape, making it a great material for custom crafting.

Keychain Design

I’ve used these beads to create fun and colorful keychains as gifts for my friends and family. The process is quick and simple:

1. String beads onto a keychain ring.
2. Add any other charms or decorative pieces you like.
3. Combine different colors to craft unique and vibrant keychains that reflect your personal style.

These make for perfect gifts and can also be used as personal accessories.

Are Heishi Beads the Same as Regular Clay Beads?

No, they are different from regular clay beads:

1. Shape: Regular clay beads can come in various shapes, while these  beads are uniquely flat and disk-shaped.
2. Design focus: They are often used for simple and modern designs, whereas regular clay beads may have more elaborate designs or patterns.

I prefer using these beads because of their clean, sleek look in my projects.

How to Make Your Own Beads?

Making your own beads at home is a fun and creative process. Here’s how I do it:

1. Take polymer clay and flatten it into thin layers using a rolling pin or a clay machine.
2. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the clay into small, flat disks.
3. Bake the clay in the oven according to the temperature and time specified on the package. 
4. Once cooled, you’ll have your very own custom-made beads ready to use!

Final Thoughts:

Although, these beads are a versatile and stylish choice for various crafting projects. Their lightweight nature and wide range of colors make them ideal for creating custom jewelry pieces, such as bracelets and necklaces. At handsonsupply.com, we offer a diverse selection to inspire your creativity and help you craft unique, personalized accessories.

FAQS

Q: What is a Heishi bead?
A: A small, flat, disc-shaped bead traditionally made from shell, stone, or coral, originating from Native American cultures.

Q: What is the meaning of Heishi?
A: Heishi means "shell" in the Keresan language of the Santo Domingo Pueblo.

Q: Why are these beads popular?

A: Their vibrant colors, trendy design, and versatility make them a favorite in modern jewelry-making.

Q: What is the weight of these beads?

A: They are lightweight, making them comfortable for everyday wear in jewelry.

Q: Are these beads durable?

A: Yes, polymer clay Heishi beads are durable and can withstand regular use.