Each strand was loaded with beads, not counted, but measured. I threaded a four inch portion of beads, then added my drops. The second half of the fringe was also loaded with beads, but measured against the first half's length, (still appx. 4 inches). The tricky part comes now. I found the best way to make the perfect twist was to use 'rubber finger tips', similar to what can be purchased in an office supply store. Holding the thread, closest to the last bead added, and pushing taut to make the beads set very close together, I began my twist in one direction. As I twisted, I made sure my efforts were twisting more towards the beads and not allowing both halves of the thread (thread length on each side of my finger hold), was also twisting. At the same time, I was turning the 'dagger' or focal at the bottom of the fringe. I did not count the number of twists, as is suggested in many online directions, but continued to twist the thread (still taut against the last bead) until the entire length of beads were twisted around.
To secure the twist and keep it into place, I used a 'spring bead stop' to hold my twist and not allow it to unravel. My needle was then thread into two beads, of the row I was adding the fringe, and passed through two additional beads, for the next fringe to begin. I pulled the thread through the four beads, still holding the original twist in the same position. Once all the thread was pulled, I made a 'half hitch' knot onto the end warp, between the two last beads I just passed through.
The best advice I can give, is to measure the length you want to twist, hold the twist taut against the last bead and keep that same twist from unraveling until you are able to make the half hitch, somewhere, to secure.
I love how this finish drapes. It has such a great feel and will add more dimension to my SLN then if I completed a 'one strand' fringe accent.
I did count the number if twists I did on the thread and repeated the same number if twists for all strands.
ReplyDeleteI started out counting the twists, but then I found, after about 15 or more, that it really didn't matter.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for posting your method! i love this fringe!!!
ReplyDeleteRobbie, I always loved it too, but very apprehensive to create it. I decided it was the best fringe, for this over all design, and wanted to over come my fears. It is a gorgeous fringe.
ReplyDeleteAnother point I failed to mention. I was told to use a thread that is already twisted. I didn't. I used 'Wildfire' which is a cotton wrapped fishing line. This worked out well for me, but there were small difficulties. Nothing worth mentioning. I think any thread, twisted as often as needed here, there would be a problem, some how. If you haven't tried this fringe, please consider it. It feels gorgeous and looks even better!
The fringe looks wonderful and I bet it feels great too - I have no suggestions but think you have done an amazing job!
ReplyDeleteOh I adore twisted fringes, this looks wonderful, Erin!
ReplyDeleteLove seeing the completed fringe - beautiful work Erin - it looks awesome!
ReplyDeleteI love this type of "insider" information. Very helpful. What type of thread would be easiest to use for a beginner?
ReplyDelete