Foremost Focal: Focusing on your designs

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Our Focal Beads

Almost all of our focal beads are one-of-a-kind artist made beads.  Each is touched by the hand of the artist and is unique.  Once one is sold, there will not be another like it again.

To help you stay current with beading trends, we may offer factory made beads such as brass pendants or copper filigree.

Most of The Art of the Bead pieces are single pendants/beads. However, when the artist has coordinating beads available we may have smaller ones added to the focal to create a set.  On a few occasions we may have sets of small beads available.

Bead Descriptions

Each description has:

• a brief explanation of the design
• the dominant colors
• size in millimeters and inches
• hole or bail placement

Please remember that everyone's monitor can change the color of an online photo so the picture you see may not show the exact color of the beads. 

The Art of the Bead Categories

Our catalog is divided by medium - Ceramic, Gemstones, Glass, Metal, Polymer Clay, Precious Metal Clay, Raku and Organics.

• If you use a smaller focal bead or a focal set, use even smaller complementary beads. Beads the same size or larger than the focal can overwhelm it.
• If your focal is composed of neutral colors, brightly colored beads will detract from its beauty.
• Make sure your jewelry complements your attire. A fantastic multi-colored focal will be lost against patterned fabric whereas worn with a solid fabric, it will be all your friends talk about!
• Add a little pizzazz to a simple focal - string other beads through the center of a donut or add a crystal to the center of a shell flower.
• Depending on the shape, some smaller focals can be strung together to make a large focal point.
• Focal beads can be used in many other ways:
  • String multiple strands through a focal as the center of a bracelet.
  • Use a small focal as a drop on a bracelet or anklet.
  • Add a pin back or embroider one into a brooch.
  • Use as the end to a lovely, long lariat.
  • Find a beautiful white or ivory focal to center a bridal veil.
  • Create a belt loop drop for jean jewelry.
  • Use as a closure on a plain top or dress or as a zipper pull.
  • Create a unique lamp or ceiling fan pull or stitch on to drapery tieback.