Q&A for How to String Pearls

On the last three pearl, ream the hole just a bit and pass your cord from both ends of your strand -- in opposing directions -- through these last three pearls, knotting as you go. It's very hard to get these tight Tight TIGHT, but persevere. Once knotted, apply GS Hypo glue, let dry and trim.

Real pearls, or high-end costume necklaces almost always have a knot between each bead. If the string breaks, the beads do not all fall. It also protects the finish on high-end costume from becoming worn, and from real pearls becoming scratched.

As a general rule, silk thread gauge roughly corresponds to diameter of bead in mm, +/- one unit. E.g. for a 6 mm bead, sizes 5, 6 or 7 will work. Optimally, a very slight resistance should be felt when the thread is pulled through the bead.

Yes it is a good idea. However the knots should be small and discreet.

Any job worth doing is worth doing well. Don't trust the strength of the original stringing — restring the entire strand. It's too risky to do it any other way. The original stringing may be frayed or old, and if it doesn't hold, you may lose beads/pearls, trying to make a fast repair.