A step-by-step guide to arranging and ironing fuse bead designs, with tips on the right temperature, cooling and protecting your pegboard.
Fuse beads are a wonderful craft activity for children, creative afternoons and rainy days, and they make lovely little gifts. A few simple steps when arranging and ironing the beads will help keep your finished design sturdy and your pegboard in good condition for longer.
This guide shows you how to prepare, iron and cool your fuse bead design.
Safety note
Only adults should do the ironing, as children could burn themselves.
Choose your design
Print out the PDF and choose your favourite design. Place the design underneath the transparent pegboard.
Arrange the fuse beads on the pegboard to match the design.
Prepare for ironing
Once your design is complete, cover it with ironing paper or baking paper.
Make sure the entire design is covered so that the fuse beads do not stick to the iron.
Ironing temperature
The right temperature depends on the size of your fuse beads. Please also check the instructions for your iron.
| Bead size | Recommended ironing temperature | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mm fuse beads | Iron at the highest temperature setting | Well suited to larger designs |
| 5 mm fuse beads | Iron at a medium temperature setting | See the extra tip for 5 mm fuse beads |
Iron the design
Move the iron over the baking paper in circular motions, applying even pressure across the entire design.
The exact ironing time can vary depending on your iron. Carefully check that the fuse beads have fused together properly before removing the iron.
Let it cool
Keep the baking paper over the design and place it under a heavy object, such as a book.
Wait a few minutes for it to cool. Then remove the baking paper and carefully lift the design off the pegboard.
Extra tip for 5 mm fuse beads: help your pegboards last longer
We aim to make our pegboards as sturdy as possible. Even so, uneven pressure or prolonged heat when ironing 5 mm fuse beads can damage the pegs and eventually cause them to melt.
To reduce this risk, we recommend using the tape method when ironing 5 mm fuse beads:
- Arrange the beads on the pegboard.
- Cover the completed bead design with adhesive tape.
- Carefully lift the taped design off the pegboard.
- Turn the design over, cover it with ironing paper and iron it.
Frequently asked questions about fuse beads
What temperature should I use for fuse beads?
For 10 mm fuse beads, we recommend the highest temperature setting. For 5 mm fuse beads, a medium temperature is usually enough.
Can I use baking paper instead of ironing paper?
Yes, you can use either ironing paper or baking paper. Make sure the entire design is covered so that the beads do not stick to the iron.
Why should I place a weight on the design after ironing?
Adding a weight helps the design stay flatter and sturdier as it cools. A book works well for this.
Why is the tape method recommended for 5 mm fuse beads?
The tape method is recommended for 5 mm fuse beads because it lets you carefully remove the design from the pegboard before ironing. This protects the pegboard from heat and pressure.
Final tips for a successful fuse bead design
With the right preparation, a suitable temperature and a little patience, you can create a beautiful, sturdy fuse bead design. Be sure to cover the design completely with ironing paper or baking paper and let it cool thoroughly after ironing.
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