Books and magazines are fantastic sources of information and instruction for the beader – but there is nothing quite like watching techniques being demonstrated in real time. Ideally you’d be sat with an instructor, or at a class watching as they work. However this just isn't possible for everyone and help is at hand for those beaders who are looking to improve their skills but unable to take a class. Popular video sharing websites offer a rich source of information for the wire and bead jewelry maker.

In case you haven't noticed, video sharing websites aren't all about family out-takes and cute kitten videos! They can also offer a valuable and extensive information resource for wire and bead jewelers. A quick search through one of the video sharing websites will return you videos on different techniques (both at beginner level and more advanced), examples of finished pieces and even related subjects like glass bead making and using precious metal clay.

One of the great things about watching beading videos on the internet (besides the fact they are free!) is that you can stop and rewind, and also make notes as you go. It is also easy to flick between videos to see how different people approach a technique if required. Being short digital videos it is easy too to move forward and backwards without having to keep rewinding the film, and of course you can book mark or save as ‘favorites’ all the videos you find particularly useful and compile your own personal video library.