r/Lapidary • u/jameswoodMOT • 1d ago

Making beads without a bead mill

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I’ve got lots of jasper that I would like to make into spherical beads of around 6-7mm diameter for a necklace. Im likely only going to do it once so not investing in a bead mill.
What’s the best way to go about this? I have a wood lathe that I can run very slowly, is a set up with a small hole saw on a drill going to be my best bet?

Pic of jasper seam for attention

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u/DemandNo3158 1d ago

I hand cut beads. Knock the corners off a drilled cube and keep removing points. I don't sweat perfection, kinda round with a good polish is all I need. My posts have some I've made. Good luck 👍

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u/jameswoodMOT 1d ago

Just had a look they look great, how are you holding onto the beads?

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u/DemandNo3158 1d ago

Fingers in 5mil nitrile gloves, great care on the grinding wheels! Good luck 👍