Adding beads to your crochet project will jazz up any design, adding colour, texture or sparkles. I especially like to use this technique on my crochet scrunchies, which you can find the free pattern for here.

There are two methods I like to use for adding beads: pre-stringing (stringing the beads onto your yarn before you start) and hooking beads as you crochet. Below are step by step instructions for both.

You will need:

  • Yarn
  • Crochet hook suitable for your yarn weight
  • Beads (make sure they have a hole large enough for your yarn!)
  • Sewing needle or small crochet hook e.g. 1.25mm

Method 1: Pre-Stringing Beads

This method involves threading the beads onto your yarn before you begin crocheting.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Thread the Beads onto the Yarn:
    • If the bead holes are too small to fit over the yarn, use a sewing needle or a small beading needle to help thread them onto the yarn.
    • Thread as many beads as you’ll need for your project. It’s better to add more than you think you’ll need, as it can be difficult to add more beads later.
  2. Start Crocheting:
    • Work your crochet stitches as normal until you reach the point where you want to place a bead.
  3. Add a Bead:
    • When you reach the stitch where the bead is to be placed, slide the bead up the yarn until it rests next to your hook.
    • Work the next stitch as normal with the bead in place, so that the bead sits on the front side of your work.
  4. Continue Crocheting: Keep crocheting as usual, sliding a bead into place whenever needed.
  5. Secure the Beads: If you’re worried about the beads moving, you can lock them into position by pulling the stitches around the beads quite tight.

Method 2: Hooking Beads as You Go

This method lets you add beads as you go, without pre-stringing. It’s better for projects where you’re unsure of bead placement ahead of time.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Start Crocheting: Begin crocheting as normal until you reach the point where you want to add a bead.
  2. Place a Bead on the Hook:
    • Use a smaller crochet hook that can fit through the bead hole.
    • Insert the smaller hook through the bead hole and pull up a loop of yarn (or the stitch you’re working with) through the bead.
  3. Add the Bead to the Yarn:
    • Once the yarn loop is through the bead, transfer the loop back to your working crochet hook.
  4. Continue Crocheting: Now that the bead is in place, crochet as usual, securing the bead within your stitch.
  5. Repeat as Needed: Add beads only when you reach the points in your pattern where they are required.