Recently I was talking with a fellow beader about the old adage, “Practice makes perfect.” Specifically, I was talking about a new project I’m working on for the October issue that involves stitching several units of the same shape, not unlike the links for “Link to creativity” in the June issue or the peyote tubes for “Crimson crowns” in Brilliant Crystal Jewelry 2.

The first time I attempted one of the units for the current project, it didn’t turn out quite right. The next few units I made were okay, and by the time I neared the end, I was stitching uniform little units that marched along with (near) perfection. Just like other times I’ve tried something new, when the first one didn’t turn out the way I’d envisioned, I thought for a brief moment that I wouldn’t be able to get it right. But the more rational part of my brain quickly took over. When I apply a little effort, I’m usually able to accomplish something. And when I practice enough times, I eventually reach a point where I wonder how I could have ever had trouble with such a simple task in the first place.

I’m sure you’ve experienced this, too. Maybe with a musical instrument — remember those first few squeaky notes on the violin or trumpet? And eventually, you were belting out “Twinkle twinkle, little star” like old hat. Maybe with a bicycle — remember falling off or thinking you were going to fall and then looking back at Mom or Dad waving while you were actually riding all by yourself? Maybe with knitting (which, I confess, I still haven’t mastered). Or learning how to read or tie your shoes or any number of other tasks that once seemed so insurmountably difficult and are now as familiar as breathing.

Beading works the same way. Think of a stitch or other beading skill that you know like the back of your hand. Maybe it’s right-angle weave or stringing or making wrapped loops. At one time, your skill may have seemed like a daunting task, but now you don’t even give it a second thought. How did you get to that point? Practice, of course!

My first several attempts at peyote stitch, for example, left me with twisted and bowed first rows, dropped beads and extra beads, lumps, and all manner of “creative” takes on the stitch. Eventually, though, I got a feeling for an appropriate amount of tension, and after enough tries, I was stitching like a pro.

Now think of a beading skill that you’ve yet to learn. Do you look at a project and think, “That’s too hard,” or do you say, “I’m up for the challenge”? When looking at a project that seems too difficult for your skill level, it helps to believe that you’re capable of learning it. And you’re capable because of one simple, handy tool: practice. Determination helps, too. Go ahead and give it a try.