Elegant Bead Tie Backs for Curtains

Curtains frame a window and bring warmth and style to a room. However, plain curtains sometimes lack that finishing touch to really elevate the decor. This is where bead tie backs come in. These decorative accessories adorn curtain panels with elegance. Keep reading to discover why bead tie backs are an easy yet dramatic way to enhance drab curtains.

Tie backs made with beads add a subtle touch of glamour to any window treatment. Their shimmer and color breathe new life into boring drapes or curtains. Bead tie backs come in many styles, ranging from delicate strands of crystals to bold wood beads in vivid hues. Their versatility makes them suitable for both casual and formal spaces.

Benefits of Bead Tie Backs for Curtains

There are many advantages to using beaded tie backs on your curtains:

• They add an ornamental element to plain curtain panels.
• Bead tie backs are an inexpensive DIY upgrade for existing curtains.
• You can find bead tie backs in a variety of colors and textures to match any decor.
• They pull back curtains neatly and keep window treatments in place.
• Tie backs with beads create an elegant, finished look for any window.

Rather than buying entirely new curtains, bead tie backs provide affordable decoration. Their dazzle and shimmer transforms bland drapes into a decorative focal point. Adding this small embellishment creates the illusion of custom window treatments. Bead tie backs also have functional benefits, holding curtains out of the way when desired. The weight and texture of beads keeps curtain panels draped neatly in place.

Choosing the Right Bead Tie Backs

When selecting bead tie backs, consider your current decor and the style of your curtains. Delicate crystal strands pair nicely with lightweight sheer or embroidered curtains. Wooden beads in bright, bold hues add a punch of color and interest to solid drapes. Match gold, silver or iridescent beads with formal or intricate curtains. For casual curtains, try ceramic, clay or natural beads. Mixing and matching bead shapes, sizes and colors allows for endless design options.

Placement of Bead Curtain Tie Backs

Proper placement of tie backs is key to both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Attach them about one-third to halfway between the ends of the rod. Curtains will stack and hang nicely when tied back at this position. Make sure tie backs are anchored securely so the weight of heavy curtains does not pull them loose. Some options for attaching them include:

• Sewing ties directly onto the back of curtain panels
• Using removable clip rings that attach tie backs to rod brackets
• Affixing adjustable holders with adhesive strips or screws
• Wrapping ties around finials or external rods attached to the wall

Adjust the length and spacing of tie backs to achieve the amount of drapery gathered to each side. Place them wider apart for a sweeping look or closer together to hold more fabric back from windows or doors. Allow ample tie length so beads do not clump or tangle in curtains.

Buying Bead Curtain Tie Backs

You can purchase beaded curtain tie backs from a variety of sources. Craft and fabric stores often have a wide selection of colors, materials and designs. Big box stores may offer less expensive basics. For more unique options try searching handmade marketplace sites like Etsy. You can also buy supplies to create your own custom bead tie backs.

Ready-Made Tie Backs

Browse stores in person or online to find an array of ready-made beaded tie backs in different styles:

• Big box retailers - Stores like Target and Walmart sell simple beaded curtain tie backs in colors like black, brown, white or natural wood tones.
• Craft stores - Shop chains like Michaels or Hobby Lobby for tie backs with colorful beads, crystals, or charms.
• Home decor stores - At Home, World Market and similar stores carry a variety of beaded tie backs and holdbacks.
• Etsy - Artisans on Etsy offer custom-made tie backs with unique beads and embellishments.

DIY Tie Back Supplies

Make your own bead tie backs using materials sourced from local craft stores:

• Beads - Select beads in colors and shapes that you like. Consider glass, wood, plastic, ceramic, gemstones and more.
• Cord - Choose ribbon, twine, rope or trim to string beads onto for the tie backs.
• Clasps - Ends can be finished off with bead tips, knot covers, tassels or jewelry findings.
• Fasteners - Attach ties to curtains using sew-on rings, removable clips or stick-on pads.

Making DIY beaded curtain tie backs allows total creative freedom. Follow bead patterns from instructions or design your own symmetrical, asymmetrical or eclectic styles.

How to Make Beaded Curtain Tie Backs

Making your own bead tie backs is an easy DIY project. Follow these simple steps:

1. Select beads, cord and findings for your desired design.
2. Cut cord into two equal lengths for tie backs, leaving extra length for attaching to curtains.
3. String beads onto cords in chosen pattern, leaving space at ends for fasteners.
4. Finish cord ends with knots, crimps, tassels or bead tips to secure beads.
5. Attach fasteners like sew-on rings or removable clips to ends.
6. Connect finished tie backs to back of curtain panels as needed.

When designing bead tie backs, consider balanced strands using focal beads alternated with smaller accent beads. Or create an organic look by randomly stringing beads in a pleasing color combination. For a bold statement, make tie backs from chunky wood beads in a single vibrant hue.

Beading Patterns and Techniques

There are endless options for beading your tie backs. Some patterns and techniques to try include:

• Groupings - String same beads together in groups of 2-5 beads.
• Gradations - Transition from large beads to small for an ombre effect.
• Shades - Use beads ranging from light to dark in the same color family.
• wraps - Add wire or smaller beads between accent beads.
• Spacers - Use small beads to separate and secure larger focal beads.
• Charms - Incorporate decorative charms, buttons or found objects for whimsy.

The design choices are limitless! Select beads in colors to complement your home's palette. Refer to beading diagrams or make up your own creative patterns. Vary textures and shapes for visual interest. When in doubt, keep bead tie back designs simple for timeless appeal.

Follow these tips when installing your bead curtain tie backs:

• Determine the ideal placement on your window or door frame.
• Allow enough length in ties for adjustable gathering of curtains.
• Anchor ties securely so weight of curtains does not pull them down.
• Use removable clips for easy repositioning and curtain laundering.
• Make sure beads do not snag, tangle or damage delicate fabrics.
• Consider adding more ties evenly across extra wide curtains or drapes.
• Check ties periodically and re-knot cords if beads start to loosen.