Product Department

Fireline is a fundamental component of bead weaving, and can be used in some bead stringing projects as well. Fireline, a braided metal wire with the feel of thread, is the best replacement for beading thread, as it does not stretch and frays less. The only time we have experienced problems with Fireline fraying is when it is used on bugle beads or with Swarovski crystals.

Problems with Fireline fraying can be diminished or eliminated by using a seed bead on either side of a bugle bead, and by pulling the Fireline in the same direction as the hole in the bead is going (rather than pulling the thread across the bead).

Fireline comes in two colors Crystal (almost clear) and Smoke (grey) We always choose the color of the Fireline after we have selected the beads, to minimize the thread showing.

Fireline comes in two sizes 4# (.006 diameter) and 6# (.008 diameter). People seem to have their own preferences as to when to use which weight, so it is to your advantage to experiment with the different sizes to check for your preference. Bear in mind that if you have a bead with a small hole, say a 15/0, and you need to go through it multiple times, 4# will most likely be a better choice.

Fireline also comes in two sizes of rolls - 50 feet and 125 feet. The 125 foot roll is a better buy for those who need a large quantity of Fireline.

Lightweight beads such as 11/0, 15/0, bugle beads and 3mm shape beads can be strung on Fireline, as Fireline provides a nice drape for lightweight beads.