Beading Tools

[Dale Winburn]

What's the best tool(s) for small (1/8 -1/2 inch) beads? I'm looking for ways to improve my beads, right now I have a long way to go to get the perfect bead. Does anybody have any experience with the D-Way Beading Tools?

Thanks for your input.
Dale Winburn

[Jim Burr]

IMO...D-way is the way to go. I don't get paid by Dave, just a happy customer. I tried the Sorby and it scared the crap outa me!! I have the 3/16 & 1/8, and use them un-handled. Jim Adkins uses the same and in the same fashion. This presupposes that you are not a skew master!

[John Keeton]

+1 on D-Way. I have tried the Sorby and others - no comparison!

[BILL DONAHUE]

Ditto on D Way

[Russell Neyman]

Yep, D-Way. And get the detail tool, too. It's teardrop-shaped and great for getting into tight places.

[John Keeton]

Yep, D-Way. And get the detail tool, too. It's teardrop-shaped and great for getting into tight places.I agree with Russell on the diamond tool, as well. It is my go to for incising and laying out beads, etc.

[Dale Winburn]

Thanks to everyone for your input. I just ordered the 5 tool set of beading tools and the diamond tool.

Dale Winburn

[Russell Neyman]

I agree with Russell on the diamond tool, as well. It is my go to for incising and laying out beads, etc.

I keep meaning to photograph it and post my thoughts on it here. That little thing is pretty darn handy. I use it to create scores for burn lines and to clean out corners. It gives you the ability to create extremely crisp corners, too.

[John Keeton]

Russell, sounds like you use it much like I do. There are some cuts that can be done so easily with it - nice tool to have in the quiver!

[Steve Mawson]

Also watch Dave's video on the D-Way site. That will show how to use the tools to help you get started. Another satisfied customer.

[Ryan Baker]

I've gotta agree with the others. The D-Way beading tools (and diamond tool) are great. I keep meaning to fill out my set with the last few sizes I don't have. Another satisfied customer.

Definitely watch the videos on the site. There's something about the way those tools are presented that is unsettling and sets off the "don't do it -- it's gonna catch" part of my brain. But it works just fine and leaves a cleaner cut than any of the scraping tools.

[Bernie Weishapl]

Sheesh here we go again. More tools I need to get including the D-way CBN wheel.

[Russell Neyman]

Absolutely watch Dave Schweitzer's video on the D-Way site, because the way these are used differently than all other beading tools I know of (or own). It's different, but easier. One thing Dave will tell you in person -- but I don't think he says it on the video -- is that it helps to lubricate the beading process with soapy water in a spray bottle.