Waist beads are a traditional African adornment made out of tiny glass beads strung on a thread or wire and worn around the waist or hips. They are available in a variety of colors and forms, and they may also feature beautiful stones, crystals, or charms.
In Africa, belts are used as symbols of femininity, fertility, and sexual sensuality. Today, belts are imported to the United States and are used as a decoration, in addition to many other purposes such as tracking weight loss in women.
In this article, we will provide a lot of knowledge about belt beads like what they are, how to make belt beads, how to wear them, and how to use belt beads for weight loss purposes.
Waist beads have been worn by women in various West African communities for generations. They have attracted the attention of women from the US, Canada and EU countries in recent years. They are also known as belly beads, waistline beads, or beaded waist chains.
Table of Contents
- 1 What are waist beads?
- 2 The History of Waist Beads
- 3 Benefits of waist beads
- 4 The meaning of waist beads
- 5 Some facts about waist beads
- 6 Wear Waist Beads For Weight Loss
- 7 DIY Waist Beads kit – How to Make Waist Beads without Clasp
- 8 How to Tie Waist Beads?
- 9 How Should Waist Beads Fit?
- 10 Where to buy waist beads?
What are waist beads?

Waist beads are a traditional African accessory. They are a common accessory that originates from many parts of Africa. That is also the reason they are called African belly beads.
African belly beads consist of small, blob-shaped glass beads that are strung on a string. They are worn around the waist or hips. You can find them in many sizes, shapes, and colors. They can also be made with a variety of decorative charms, stones, and crystals.
They are often used to beautify, and inspire sexual partners and are preferred over belly button piercings because they are painless and easily changeable.
Women in many West African cultures have worn belly beads for centuries. These beads were worn for status symbols and rites of passage as early as the 15th century. The symbol of femininity and fertility in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and other West African countries is the waist bead.
To show maturity and growth, some African cultures wear belly beads. A belly bead is worn by girls who have had their first period in some cultures to mark the passage into womanhood.
You can bathe, shower, and exercise in traditional African waist beads strung with cotton string. They become an extension of your body and can be used for all things. Be careful not to pull your pants down while using the bathroom.
You should also not wrap them too tightly, because they are designed to stay on the body for a long time. You can use a string to measure your waist, which will help you figure out the right size.
Waist beads come in many shapes and sizes, so you can choose from different kinds of waist beads that symbolize the different emotions you want to express. You can wear them anywhere on your body.
Some women wear waist beads for aphrodisiac purposes, while others wear them for spiritual or meditative purposes. Regardless of what you are wearing, they can be a very attractive ornament. A waistline bead can be a way to enhance a woman’s overall physical appearance.
Wrist beads are a type of jewelry that can be worn by any woman. They can also be worn with a high-cut top to highlight your curves. While waist beads are not for everyone, they do add a stylish touch to any outfit.
The History of Waist Beads
It was very intentional that the waist bead style emerged. Its roots date back to the 15th century when it was used symbolically of spiritual power and affluence. The beads have become more of a fashion statement and can be used to express individual style. They can be removed at any time but are meant to stay in place for 6 months to 1 year.
It is interesting to learn about the history of the waist beads. The waist bead is a prominent symbol of femininity in some parts of Africa. They are an integral part of African culture and have many meanings. They are worn by many African women to exude an intimate appeal. Some women wear them to dress up while others use them daily. They don’t want to show too many skinny areas, which can make them appear unattractive.
The waist bead’s history is equally fascinating. The reason for this is that the beads were worn in the past by women. They were worn as a symbol of womanhood and aristocratic status in ancient cultures. They were believed to be able to heal illness. They were worn by some people to attract men. Some wore them to display their beauty and age. The importance of the waistband is not to be understated, regardless of its history.
Although the history of the waist beads dates back to the 15th Century, the styles of adornments have changed significantly over the last few centuries. These beads can be made from many materials, and some even include precious stones and crystals. They are a universal symbol of individuality and self-expression. There are many types of these beads, but the most popular ones are those that have a specific purpose or symbolism.
It is fascinating to learn about the history of waist beads. These beads were used primarily for ceremonial purposes in the early modern era. They were also used in the renaissance to show the importance of a person. They are now worn to show fashion and can have many meanings. They are worn by women in the USA. The waist bead’s history is very similar to that of a lawsuit.
The waist bead’s history dates back to ancient Egypt. This type of jewelry is also believed to have been worn in other cultures. These waist beads are mentioned in many cultures, including African history. This piece of jewelry is considered a symbol of Hathor in various religions. They believe that the belly dancer’s weight can help improve her health.
Benefits of waist beads
Waist beads are feminine accessories that can be used to enhance the femininity of a woman’s figure. They are also known as belly beads, waist beads, or belly beads. You can find small beads that are attached to a wire or string and worn around your waist or hips. They are designed to flatter the stomach, hips, and belly of a woman. Women have worn waist beads in many West African cultures for generations. In recent years, they have also been popularized by Western females.
It aids in weight loss
Instead of using a scale to track your weight every day, you can use waist beads to chart it. Because it doesn’t stretch, you can quickly see when you gain weight and where it fits closer to your hips. The beads around it will feel looser if you lose weight. Also, it is important to pay attention to how you sit and stand. It will help you to adjust your sitting position and strengthen your stomach muscles.
Increases sexual attraction and satisfaction
This waist bead enhances a woman’s sensuality and makes her more attractive to men. The beads are a beautiful ornament that makes the body attractive. Men love to strum the beads to show their affection for their women and express their sexual desire. The waist beads are an important part of enhancing a man’s sexual appetite. A woman with her waist covered in beaded strings will be incredibly attractive and desirable.
Heritage and pride
African women are proud of their heritage and traditions and don’t mind wearing waist beads to show respect for it. They give the woman’s body a glamourous brush and also explain to their daughters what waist beads mean. The West’s Black and Brown women use waist beads to represent the history of the diaspora.
Maturity
The downside to African waist beads is their ability to display maturity. To show their daughters’ transformation from child to womanhood, mothers tie beads around the waist of their daughters in an African tradition. During naming ceremonies, some Ghanaians still wear baby beads around the waist. It is revealed that the children eventually outgrow it and move on to a new phase of their lives.
The meaning of waist beads
A decorative symbol of femininity, waist beads are used to decorate the body. They are used by women to symbolize their femininity and can be used for many purposes. Women in America wear waist beads to enhance their intimacy or aesthetics.
In other African cultures, however, waist beads are used for ceremonies such as when a girl enters puberty or when a woman becomes pregnant. The meaning of the waist beads varies depending on who you are and what culture they come from. We’ll discuss how color choices can affect the meaning of waist beads.
In summary, we can recognize the color meaning of the waist beads as follows:
- Blue: healing, harmony, insight, truth
- Brown: earth, stability
- Green: prosperity, fertility, abundance, hope, healing
- Purple: spirituality, wisdom, royalty
- Red: vitality, passion, bravery, confidence
- White: light, truth, purity
- Yellow: wisdom, clarity, awareness, energy, joy
In addition, these waist beads are often decorated with stones and charms, their meanings are usually:
- Evil eye: protection against negativity
- Green aventurine: luck, prosperity, wealth
- Hamsa: protection against evil or bad luck
- Lapis lazuli: peace, wisdom, truth, insight
- Quartz: clarity, amplifies other crystals
- Rose quartz: love, compassion, healing
Some facts about waist beads
You’ve probably heard or read a lot about waist beads or African waist beads. However, there is a lot of interesting information behind this very beautiful jewelry of West African women which is also very popular today in the African American community in the United States. Here are some facts about waist beads that you may not know:
- Waist beads are a decorative symbol tied to femininity. They symbolize womanhood, and women use them for various purposes.
- African waist beads can last for up to 5 years without taking them off.
- Some women who are deeply rooted in spirituality associate certain waist beads with the capacity to bring spiritual healing, peace, and sanity into their lives.
- Waist beads have been used by girls to become more aware of their stomach and sitting posture.
- You do not have to be African to wear waist beads, nor do you have to wear waist beads for its traditional purposes.
- Traditional tie waist beads are semi-permanent and can be worn while bathing, swimming, sleeping, and even having sex. It is perfectly fine to bathe, shower, swim, exercise, and have sex in traditional African waist beads strung on cotton string.
- African waist beads were made popular by the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria and started to worn as early as the 15th century for many purposes
- Wearing waist beads is a form of cultural appreciation, not appropriation
- Many believe that the history of waist beads began in ancient Egypt, where they were called “girdles” and women wore waist beads as a status symbol.
- Waist beads have been worn by African women as a symbol of femininity and prosperity for centuries and it is believed to have been in existence since the 15th century.
- It’s totally normal if your waist beads break. Your waist bead is totally breakable either because you’re eating too or maybe while moving too fast, you don’t get to notice your beads attached to something and it rips it off your waist.
- The main purpose of waist beads are to gauge changes in weight. Rather than step on a scale, people can use waist beads to stay aware of any weight gain or loss in the abdomen.
- There are a lot of Benefits of Waist Beads rather than a tool for beauty, for example: helps with weight loss, Boosts Sexual Attraction and Satisfaction, Maturity…
- You can wear as many strands as you want, and you can wear them for whatever you want. They are a powerful means of self-expression. You can wear as few or as many waist beads as you feel comfortable in.
- You can wear your waist beads all day, everyday. They may dull after time from showering, if that happens just polish them with a cloth. If you do want to take them off from time to time you’ll want to tie them loosely from the beginning and then just pull them up and off like a shirt.
- Black beads are believed to symbolize the ability to hold onto hope in the face of adversity and also to be positive in unhappy times.
- The red beads symbolize life and the ability to transform into warriors. The white, separating the red, act as a neutralizer to passions often inflamed when the warrior spirit is awakened.
- Brown or wooden beads represent Mother Earth and have grounding effects. This color stands for stability, reliability and warmth.
- The most robust and durable thread for tie-on waist beads is a quality Nylon Cord
Wear Waist Beads For Weight Loss
The waist measurement is an important indicator to assess a woman’s body shape. Ideal body measurements for women include bust, waist, and hip measurements. The waist beads have been a tool both for beauty and for tracking the waist measurement of African women for a long time.
Waist beads can be a great way of keeping track of your weight and helping you stay in shape. The traditional waist beads are not flexible and are used as status symbols. You can choose to wear a smaller or larger waistband. You can place them around your hips and midsection, so they should feel comfortable even while you sit down. If you plan to use waist beads for weight loss, however, it is important that they fit correctly.
Tie a waistband of weight loss beads above your belly button. Use a string or nonstretch fabric to make the belt to prevent the bead from slipping to the hip bones. As you lose weight, these belts will gradually slide down your waistline and fall to your hip bones. Don’t be concerned if you are worried about losing weight. There are many benefits to waist beads.
While they are not an effective way to lose weight, waist beads can be fun and a great way to track your progress. They are a great tool to help you lose weight, but they should not be uncomfortable to wear. They should not be too tight or loose. It’s a sign you are losing weight if your waist beads become looser or more uncomfortable. If they’re too tight, it could be an indication that you have overeaten.
You can use a waist bead to control your weight. These dangling charms are useful for preventing excess eating and measuring your weight. These charms can be purchased at your local grocery or online store. To monitor your progress, you can wear them while exercising. They can be worn while exercising to monitor your progress.
These exotic and colorful waist beads are a great way for women to show off their curves and make them feel confident. These accessories aren’t safe for your health, but some people might choose to add them to their beauty. These simple steps will help you lose weight if you are considering wearing a waistband. You will love how it looks and lasts. To make your waist appear more attractive, you can add layers of belly beads.
The waist watch is an excellent way to track your weight. Women who are looking to lose weight should have this weight loss tool. For centuries, African waist beads have been used to regulate the growth of women’s bodies and prevent excess fat from forming. You can find them in the United States in many different shapes and colors. You can find the perfect pair to match your outfit in a range of sizes and colors.
You can also use waist beads to help you live a healthy lifestyle. These weight loss beads will help you keep track of your progress, and motivate you to lose weight. These beads are popular for women looking to lose weight and look slimmer. They can be worn with a small t-shirt or a belly band. You’ll be more aware of your weight and how much you can tolerate by keeping track.
These plastic weight loss beads can be purchased in a variety of sizes. They can be purchased at a local health shop or online. Your waist beads will fall to your waist if you lose weight. They will remain in the same place if you gain weight. You should take them off if you are gaining weight. To gauge how much weight you are losing or gaining, you can wear them throughout the day.
Women who are losing weight will find waist beads a great choice. They remind you how much food you ate. They can help you stop eating too much and encourage you to eat healthier. You can lose weight without feeling embarrassed by keeping track of how big your waist is. They can be worn during your exercise sessions. You can also purchase a wristband to monitor your weight if you are concerned about your health.
DIY Waist Beads kit – How to Make Waist Beads without Clasp
Making waist beads is one of the most fun DIY projects. These personalized belts can be made in many colors and allow you to express your creativity. Making your own belts is easy. They can be made out of almost any material. As long as you follow some simple steps, there are no rules about how long your belt should last. This DIY video will show you how to create waistbands inspired by waist beads that match your style.
Once you have chosen the style you like, it’s time to string the beads onto the string. It is easiest to make them by using two rolls each of cords. One for each length of the belt and one for each type of bead. Next, make the belt using the beads. Choose a string that is easy to work with and resistant to mildew.
Then, wrap the wire around your waist. Attach the second end to the wire using a bead stopper. Cut the remaining six inches of string to ensure your bead does not fall off the string. Now tie a bead string around your waist. This is an easy-to-make, beginner-friendly beading method.
After you have completed the string, you will be able to finish the bead by adding a piece of wire. Jump rings can be used to fix a wire with a weak base. This is a great way for kids to create unusually colored waist beads. Don’t forget about the many styles! These will make a fashion statement.
Making waist bead belts starts with choosing the right type of bead. You want a design that is versatile and stylish. A necklace with a clear string is best for formal events or weddings. A stunning necklace can be the perfect choice for formal events.
After you have chosen your style, it is time to select your materials. The good quality string will last a long time. The string should be flexible enough to wrap around your waist using a loop. Measure your waist to make a belt. Double the thread. You’ll be comfortable wearing the beads for many years. You can also hire someone to help you if you aren’t confident in your sewing skills.
Pre-made waist beads kits can be purchased in a shop. These kits can be made with any materials you like, and even the size. You can make different sizes and colors of belts and even add other colors to the mix. You can also customize the beads to fit your style and personality. You can also buy them in bulk to make them fit your body. You can also make your own belt if you are looking for a DIY option. You might not receive the product you ordered from some sellers.
Next, make a waistband. It is not as hard as you might think. This can be used to commemorate a special occasion, or as fashion accessories. Making your own belts is a great way to express yourself. You can create your own belt and customize it to suit your style. This is a great way to measure your waist and determine your body size.
These beads are fun to wear and can be made to match your personal style. You can make waist beads by purchasing the materials, then tying them with string. After you have the materials, you can begin designing your belt. It will be much more comfortable if you use the correct type of elastic. It’s simple to personalize your outfits by choosing your favorite colors and style.
The Best String for Waist Beads
What string is best for making waist beads? You want to be able to use waist beads with a string that is both strong and comfortable. It should be easy to use, not sticky, and resistant to mildew. There are many materials that will work. However, you might want to think about whether their firmness or elasticity is right for your project.
When choosing the right thread for your waist beads, there are a few things you should consider. You wouldn’t want your hard work to be wasted on a bad thread!
Durability Choose a string that is durable and strong enough to last a long time. It should not fray easily, or your waist beads may fall apart.
Consistent and long: When stringing waist beads, it is important to choose a string with even thickness that can be wrapped around your waist twice as many times as you like. If you’re using stretchable materials, it should be at least 80-100cm long.
Silky soft on skin:Â Because the skin around the waist is delicate, it is best to choose a string that feels great on your skin.
Simple to cut and use: You should choose cords or strings that can resist color fading and are non-fading. If you want to make waist beads, it is important that they are easy to work with and cut.
Nonsticky and mildew-resistant: Strings should be easy to use, but strong enough to hold knots and form shapes. Some strings are waxed so they don’t stick to the skin or leave behind any residue.
The right stringing materials can be used to make waist beads. We’ve scoured the web for the best stringing materials for making waist beads.
- Beadnova Bracelet String
- 23 Bees 100% Organic hemp String
- Yaomiao Elastic Clear Stretchy Cord
- Cridoz Stretchy String Kit With 5 Assorted Rolls
- EuTengHao 0.8mm Elastic Waist Bead String
- EuTengHao 10 Colored Crystal String
- Mandala Crafts 2mm Waxed Cotton String
- Hemptique 100% Strong Hemp String 1mm
- PH Pandahall Satin And Nylon Rattail Smooth Strings – Set Of 10
- Tenn Well Colorful Elastic Fabric 1.5mm String
- URATOT 0.8mm Clear Elastic String With Plastic Boxes
- Weico Crystal Elastic 0.8mm String
- Zealor Set Of Two 1mm Fabric Rolls
DIY Waist Beads: What You Will Need
- Small colored Christmas Beads and glass beads
- Measurement of flexible plastic or cloth tape
- Four strands of Nylbond (or a similar strong beading thread) are approximately 80-100cm in length.
- 8 Large Chevrons and similar glass trade beads
- AÂ mixture of smaller Venetian Trade Beads
Instructions:
These are the instructions for making your own African waist beads from scratch using only the best threads.
Step 1:
Make a double knot about 1 inch from each end of each string. To ensure that the knot is secure, pull both ends of the string tightly. The next step is to begin building your individual beaded strands. Next, thread on your Christmas Beads according to the order you prefer. Most African Waist Beads don’t have a specific color order.
Step 2:
After you have covered each strand approximately 30 cm with Christmas Beads tie all four strands together. Use a large focal Chevron Bead to thread all four strands through a perforation hole. Next, use a Christmas Bead. Continue with three more Chevron Beads separated by Christmas Beads.
Step 3:
Once you have threaded the last Chevron, tie a knot or hold each strand between your thumbs and forefinger. You can thread enough trade beads onto each of the strands to cover another 20-25cm in length. Next, tie another knot or create a Chevron by threading each four strands through a perforation hole one more time.
Step 4:
As in step 3, continue adding the Chevron Beads. Make sure to add a Christmas Bead between each one. Knot the strands again after the last Chevron.
Step 5:
Each strand should have 30 cm of Christmas Beads. To prevent your Christmas Beads from falling off, you may want to tie a temporary loose knot at each end. After you have gathered all the beads from each strand, gently untie them. For extra security, knot the four strands as described in step 1. As much excess thread as possible, cut it off.
How to Tie Waist Beads?
It’s important to remember when you tie your waist beads that this jewelry is semi-permanent. To prevent them from falling off, you shouldn’t tie them too tight. Also, you want plenty of space for bending. Make sure your waist rings are not too loose to prevent them from falling off. You can tie your waist rings tight by making three to four knots and then looping them around your waist.
Remove excess strings from your waist beads to tie them. This can be done by cutting off the ends. The ends of the string should not be burned. To make their knots look flatter, some women burn the ends. You should not cut the strings directly at the knot. Cut the excess string slightly higher than the knot when you remove it. It will become flattened and may look frayed.
After you have cut the excess string, tie the waist beads. After you have done this, tie the extra waist beads to the thread. Place the access beads at the end of your thread. Secure your waistband by tying a knot around it at least three to four times.
After you have finished knotting your waist beads, trim them to make them more attractive. To burn any excess beads you can either use a lighter or a container to store them. Simply cut off the ends of the strings that are not attached to your waistband and tie it in tight. Next, wrap the string around your waist and secure it with a knot.
After you have adjusted your waist beads, you may tie them in multiple places and add more strands to the bracelet. You can remove your waist beads easily by using a pair of pliers. To tie the beads, you can use your fingers. You can also use a jewelry needle or a string to attach the beads. To make your waistbelt look more appealing, you can make a bow using the extra string.
Measure your waist to tie the waist beads. To measure your waist, you can use tape or string. Then tie the beads using a strand. You can wrap the beads around the waist as many times as you like, depending on how big your waist is. After you have secured the beads, you will need to cut the anchors. To properly secure the beads, you will need to use string.
Traditional waist beads are usually tied around your lower hip. However, they can be tied anywhere. You will need to tie them three-time, leaving 1/4 inch of thread for breathing space. You should leave at least a half-inch gap between the top and bottom strings. Next, tie a bracelet or an anklet using the remaining thread. You can also use the extra thread to make another item, like an anklet, if you have made the knots.
You must first place the strand of beads on your stomach to tie a waist-bead. You should remember that the best place to wear the beads is at the waist. Avoid gaps. They can cause irritation and pinching. The waistband should be long enough to be comfortably worn by the bead wearer. After you have tied the bracelets, place them on your hips like a belt.
Remember that it can be difficult to tie waist beads. When the beads are wet, you must be careful not to pull them. You should also be careful not to pull the strands when you aren’t wearing the appropriate clothes. You should also avoid pulling beads when you are putting them on your bottom. To avoid tripping, be careful how you wear them.
This is a video tutorial HOW TO TIE YOUR AFRICAN WAIST BEADS by Kwashie Ambrosia
How Should Waist Beads Fit?
You must take into account the size of your stomach when choosing a pair of waist beads. They can be worn under your clothes or on top. The beading should fit comfortably in both cases. Measure it using a tape measure on your naked skin if you’re unsure. You can also measure the circumference with a tape measure against bare skin if you are still not sure. You can buy the perfect pair by measuring your waist.
You need to decide if the beads are too tight or loose when you choose a size for waist beading. They should fit comfortably around your torso in most cases. You don’t want clothes that are too loose or too tight when you wear them. They can be worn under clothes. You can wear them anywhere but they feel most comfortable when worn at the bottom of your pants.
You will need to measure your waist to be able to order custom-sized beads. Your waist should be at the top of your navel and below your butt. Your bead size should be approximately 37 inches. You can also order them online. If you are a member of the Waist Beads of the Month club, you can request that they be delivered to your home.
Although waist beading has become a very popular choice for many women there are still some things to consider before you buy a set. The first is to ensure you select the right size for you. Make sure you choose a pair made of non-stretch fabric that won’t stretch. You should also ensure that the waistband has adjustable parts so it can be adjusted to your measurements.
Make sure you measure your waist after you have purchased the beadings. You should ensure that they can be adjusted. You will need them to be the same length as your waist. They shouldn’t be too tight as it will make them uncomfortable. Also, consider the style. They will be visible if you wear them too loosely. They may be too loosely worn, which can lead to discomfort.
You will need to measure your waist before you buy waist beads. Your waistband should be snug. Measure yourself against the bearskin. A tape measure can be used to measure your waist. You might need to adjust your waist if it is too small or too large. You will need to take more measurements if you are gaining or losing weight.
By wearing your waist beads in different places, you can check their fit. If your waistband is too tight around your waist, you will be overweight. They will show you have gained weight if they are too tight around your waist. If your waistband is loose, you have lost weight. This is very important as it will cause you to lose your bead.
The waist bead can also be inspected to ensure it fits properly. Some prefer to wear their waist bead on the hips or thighs. The clasp is less flexible and more comfortable. If you have a larger waist, a bead that fits tightly around your navel will work best. Before you purchase a set, it is advisable to try both.
Waist beading can help you to show off your waistline. This will make you appear slimmer. A skirt with a waist bead adds a feminine flair. A waist bead that sits higher on the waist will suit those with a larger waist. A large waist beading will make it difficult to fit your hips and thighs. Smaller waist beads will be flattering on your hips.
Also, make sure that your waistband is correctly sized. Measure your waist at the center of your hips. Your waist should fit snugly against your naked skin. The waist bead should fit snugly against your navel. Beads should feel comfortable. The waist beading should not be too tight.
Here is a video tutorial on how to Measure Your Waist for Waist Beading
Where to buy waist beads?
You can buy waist beads at Amazon, Etsy, AliExpress, or any local jewelry store.
If at all feasible, attempt to purchase your first pair of waist beads in person. That way, the artist can measure them to your body and ensure that the beads fit precisely how you want them to.
If you live near an African market, you might be able to find a waist bead artisan. If not, a dealer may most likely put you on the appropriate route.
If you can’t locate a waist bead artist in your region, or if you prefer to shop online, you have a plethora of possibilities.
Remember that if you can’t locate prefabricated waist beads in your size, many artisans would gladly take a custom order.