Curtain glass beads are shaped in a mold, then flame-polished to a smooth, shiny finish with slightly rounded and faceted edges. Glass beads are extensively used in the beadwork that consists of making really intricate, patterned pieces on curtains. These beads come in brilliant colors that can vary slightly in size from bead to bead. While most curtain glass beads are handmade, now they are mass produced and made by modern equipment.

Popular Forms of Glass Curtain Beads

Making glass beads for curtains, like any other craft, is only limited by the imagination and creativity of the maker. Available in a rainbow of uniqueness, these curtain beads made of glass come in literally every color and color combination imaginable. One of the most daunting aspects of working with glass beads in general, is the vast and divergent array of colors, finishes, styles available.

Finishes of Glass Curtain Beads

The various finishes in which curtain glass beads are found include ceylon (pearl) - this surface finish gives the bead a shiny, and pearlescent appearance, color-lined - these are beads that have a hole or center color that is different from the color of the bead glass itself, greasy or oily - this is a finish that gives the bead the appearance of being wet or "oil-polished". Other finishes include iridescent , metallic, opalescent, opaque, satin etc.