Creating A Beaded Bridal Hair Piece: A Step-By-Step Guide

Beaded hairpieces are a popular choice for brides, with many opting to make their own. The process can be simple, with a variety of tutorials available online. The key materials required are thin-gauge jewellery wire, freshwater pearls, rhinestone beads, Swarovski crystals, and a hair comb. The flowers are reportedly the most challenging aspect of the process. However, with some practice and patience, it is possible to create a beautiful beaded hairpiece for your wedding day.

Choosing the right length for your hair piece

Choosing the right length for your hairpiece is an important consideration when making a beaded wedding hairpiece. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Hairstyle

The length of your hairpiece should complement your chosen hairstyle. If you plan to wear your hair in an updo, a shorter hairpiece may be more suitable, while a longer hairpiece can add elegance to a down hairstyle. Consider the overall balance of your look and avoid choosing a hairpiece that overwhelms your hairstyle or gets lost in it.

Veil

If you plan to wear a veil, you can choose to layer it with your hairpiece or wear them separately. Layering creates the illusion of a single, cohesive piece. In this case, ensure your hairpiece is not too long or bulky, as it may affect the placement of your veil. If you prefer to wear your hairpiece and veil separately, you can opt for a longer hairpiece that adds a statement to your overall look.

Face shape

Consider your face shape when choosing the length of your hairpiece. For example, a longer hairpiece can elongate a round face, while a shorter hairpiece can soften a heart-shaped face. Choose a length that flatters your facial features and draws attention to your best assets.

Comfort

It is important to select a hairpiece that is comfortable to wear. Avoid choosing a length that is too heavy or bulky, as it may cause discomfort, especially if worn for an extended period. Opt for lightweight materials and a secure attachment method, such as a comb or headband, to ensure your hairpiece stays in place without causing headaches or strain.

Personal preference

Ultimately, the length of your hairpiece should align with your personal style and preference. If you prefer a more subtle and elegant look, a shorter hairpiece may be ideal. On the other hand, if you want to make a bold statement, a longer hairpiece with more intricate details can be a stunning choice.

Layering the veil and hair comb

When layering your beaded hairpiece with your veil, you want to create the illusion that they are one piece. To do this, you must first secure your veil by crisscrossing bobby pins through the metal prongs of the comb. If you plan on wearing your hair down, use a few extra bobby pins for added security. Next, gently place your decorative hair comb directly over the veil comb. This will give the impression that the two pieces are attached.

A professional tip is to ensure that you order a veil with a metal comb, as they tend to nestle against each other more easily than plastic combs.

Positioning the hair comb to the side

When positioning your beaded hair comb to the side, consider placing it on the side of your head that will be facing your guests as you speak your vows. This way, your guests can admire your sparkling accessory, and your photographer can capture the glittering magic of your hairpiece.

To create a cohesive look, try to match the style and colour of your beaded hair comb to your wedding veil. For example, if your veil has a floral pattern, choose a hair comb with beaded flowers or petals.

If you are crafting your own beaded hair comb, you can find the necessary supplies at craft stores like Michael's or Hobby Lobby. You will need thin-gauge jewellery wire, freshwater pearls, rhinestone beads, Swarovski crystals, and wire jewellery snips. Creating the "flowers" for your hair comb may be the most challenging part, so consider practising this first. Begin by wiring a bead to the end of a long piece of wire, then bend the wire behind the bead and twist it to secure it in place. Repeat this process, creating "petals" around the central bead. For added security, you can use jewellery or beading glue to prevent the beads from moving around.

Placing the hair comb above an updo

When placing a hair comb above an updo, it's important to first choose the right comb for your hairstyle. For updos, a smaller, delicate comb works well for intricate styles, while a larger, more ornate comb can add drama and elegance.

Before placing the comb, prepare your hair. One way to do this is by teasing, or backcombing, your hair. This involves lifting a layer of hair and gently teasing the underside with a fine-tooth comb. This creates a secure, cushioned base for the comb to sit. You can also use elastic bands or pincurls to create a base for the comb.

Once your hair is prepared, hold the section of hair where you'll insert the comb. Insert the comb backward, with the teeth pointing in the opposite direction of where you want the comb to sit. Then, gently flip it in the desired direction to help anchor the teeth into your hair.

To add extra security, use bobby pins that match your hair colour. Slide them over the teeth of the comb to secure it in place. You can also use hairspray to set your hairstyle and add extra hold.

If you're wearing a veil, place it underneath your updo, and then layer the comb on top of it to give the illusion that the two are attached.

Using glue to secure beads

Choosing the Right Glue

Select a strong, flexible glue designed specifically for jewellery or beading projects. A good option is jewellery or beading glue, which you can easily find at craft stores or online. This type of glue is formulated to create a strong bond between beads and other materials, such as wire or a hair comb. It is also typically clear-drying and water-resistant, ensuring that your hairpiece maintains its elegant appearance.

Preparing Your Work Area

Before you begin gluing, make sure your work area is well-ventilated. Gather all the necessary materials, including your beads, hair comb or base, glue, and any tools you may need, such as jewellery wire or pliers. It is also a good idea to cover your work surface with newspaper or a protective mat to avoid any glue stains.

Gluing Beads to Your Hairpiece

Start by laying out your beads in the desired pattern or design. When you are happy with the arrangement, carefully apply a small amount of glue to the area where you will attach the beads. You can use a toothpick or a small craft glue bottle with a precision tip for precise application. Gently press each bead into the glue, holding it in place for a few seconds to ensure a good bond. Repeat this process until you have attached all the beads to your hairpiece.

Allowing the Glue to Dry

Once you have finished gluing, set aside your hairpiece in a safe, undisturbed area to allow the glue to dry completely. Refer to the instructions on your glue packaging for the recommended drying time. Do not handle the hairpiece or try to speed up the drying process by applying heat, as this can affect the strength of the bond.

Troubleshooting and Tips

If you find that your beads are not staying in place with glue alone, you can reinforce the attachment by using jewellery wire to secure the beads. Additionally, consider applying a small amount of glue to the finished hairpiece to secure any loose beads and ensure maximum hold. Always conduct a test on a small area first to ensure the glue does not damage the appearance of your beads or hairpiece.

Frequently asked questions