Beading - how and where to start?

[Dottydot]

For the last couple of Christmas's, family members have been 'treated' to a hand knitted scarf, so I can't do the same for a third year running..!

I'm thinking about making necklaces/bracelets for the grandmas/aunties (not sure what the grandads and uncles are going to get...) but I haven't done it before.

Any recommendations of books and where I can get beads from cheaply? I've got a hobbycraft nearby which has inspired me, but I'm not sure they're the cheapest place to go.

Thanks!

Hobbycraft is not particularly cheap but its a good place to start as you can see what you are buying.
Basically with beads Ive learnt that you get what you pay for - cheap beads are often chipped, uneven etc but they are a good starting place to practice on. Start with something easy like threading beads straight onto leather thong (look out for beads with big holes!). To use headpins (the little bits of wire you can hang beads on) you really need small pliers, but it means you can make more stuff - earrings etc. If yu Google beading tutorials you often find some good stuff
Give me a shout if you need any more info

Oh - will be watching this with interest. I would love to learn but am strapped for cash and don't know where to start

Thanks Whizzz - will google away. I was looking on ebay and there's 1,000s of beads for sale - bit daunting... Might start by making something for myself from Hobbycraft stuff - but it's supposed to be a money saving exercise!

Beware...its addictive....the beads all look so shiney........just one more.....

Hobbycraft also have good ideas leaflets too with tips on - don't forget to post a pic of what youve made !

Ha, ha - now don't get carried away! But it has just been pay day, so I might get myself down there. Problem is I get addicted to stuff so easily, I can see myself spending money I haven't got on all the equipment - and a nice box of course to keep it all in - and then going off making anything in a few weeks...! (my dp is an absolute saint!)

Its all her fault - she put the pictures of the shiny beads on MN, that MADE me go and buy a secret stash of jewellry making stuff!