One of our biggest sellers lately, Czech glass farfalle beads are quickly becoming a sensation because of their unique shape and lustrous properties. Add to that the selection of beautiful colors and you’ve got a recipe for some really special additions to a beader’s bag of tricks.

Farfalle beads, also known as butterfly beads or bowtie beads, are shaped a little bit like a dog bone (or a butterfly or bowtie). In essence, these seed beads have a bit of a dip in the center through which they are strung, and flare out on the edges. This allows the beads to fit into one another creating an interesting texture, even when simply strung on a strand.

Because they are so small and rounded rather than cut with facets, farfalle beads tend to glow with an inner light rather than sparkle conspicuously like Czech firepolish beads or Swarovski crystals. This allows them to take a backseat to other elements of a design like in this gorgeous Spring Cuff by Stockholm-based designer Maja from MacraméByMaja.

These versitile little beads also allow you to use many of them to create interesting light and texture effects that won’t turn out gaudy or too bling-bling-y. Rather, farfalle beads are perfect for creating a sophisticated, understated and classic effect that looks like a million dollars.

They can be used the same way that you would use seed beads, as accents or compliments to pieces, or entirely on their own like in this gorgeous bracelet using right angle weave and brown iris farfalle beads.

I have also heard that Farfalle beads work beautifully with peyote stitch, and I’m waiting to see a finished piece using these beads with that technique (so if you have pictures, please send them!)

Keep Beading Your Heart Out!

Nishka