Pinch Windows Earrings - Beading PDF Tutorial | Rivoli Setting and Drop

A picot-framed rivoli sits like a window at the centre of each earring — the Pinch Windows earrings turn a simple bead ring into a striking, no-glue, no-prong setting that holds a 10mm rivoli in place using nothing but beadwork.

Each component starts as a ring of pinch beads and half tila beads, built up front and back with layers of seed beads and picots until a netted "window" forms around the centre — the rivoli then drops in face-down and sits framed by the pinch beads themselves. Finish as a classic drop earring, or use the same component to build a pendant with a top pearl and dangling chaton instead. A stud finding or a larger statement drop bead are both easy swaps if you want to change the scale or finish.

This is a 5-page PDF tutorial with step-by-step instructions and progress photos throughout.

Bead list (makes a pair): 8× 5mm pinch beads, 8× half tila beads, less than 1g each of size 15° (A), size 11° (A) and size 8° (A) seed beads, less than 1g each of size 15° (B) and size 11° (B) seed beads, 2× 10mm rivoli, 2× drop beads (pearl, crystal, or similar), 2× earwires of choice.

Skill level: Beginner–Intermediate. Techniques: Picot embellishment, rivoli framing (netted, no glue or prongs), working in the round with mixed bead shapes.

On A String is a small Australian beading business created by Paula — a beader, teacher, and maker who believes the craft is better when it's shared. Every tool is designed from the beading table. Every tutorial is written from experience.