What is it?:

A thread burner is a tool used in beadwork and beading to cut and melt beading thread. They are about 7 or 8 inches in length, round and shaped like a fat marker, and have a small metal heating element at the tip that is usually kept under a protective cap.

What is it used for?:

Thread burners are used for cutting gel-spun (fishing line-type) and nylon beading threads. They are also used for melting the ends of threads after the thread has been cut.


How do I use it?:

To use a thread burner, push down and hold the button on the side of the burner. You will see a small wisp of smoke come out of the metal heating element at the tip of the burner. Once the element is hot, you can touch the hot element to the thread where you want to cut or melt it.

Once you are finished with the thread burner, it is very important to replace the protective cap over the elements to prolong their life and to avoid burning yourself or the surface on which you place the thread burner before the heating element cools.

Where can I buy one and how much do they cost?:

Most local bead shops and beading supply companies carry thread burners and replacement elements. A thread burner will cost around $25, and a pack of replacement tips will cost between $4 and $10, depending on which thread burner you choose.

Pros:

• Easier to use than a lighter because you can control exactly where the heat is applied to your thread
• Melts the end of your thread to form a slightly more secure finish than a knot

• Easy to use when cutting gel-spun or fishing line-type threads

Cons:

• Tip becomes extremely hot so care must be taken not to burn yourself or anything near your work area
• Tips must be replaced periodically