FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What are waist beads?
A single or multiple strands of beads made from various kinds of glass, metal, crystal, bone, wooden beads and charms, worn around the waist and stomach. They come in many different colors and styles. Waist beads are an traditional African accessory made for all nationalities, no matter age, or size.
Why do women wear waist beads?
Waist beads have been a part of African culture since the 15th centuries. They are worn as a symbolic expression for: womanhood, femininity, fertility, spirituality, protection, seduction, confidence, sexuality, intimacy, status, wealth, celebration and so much more! While some waist beads have energy crystals the main healing is through women embracing and celebrating themselves no matter the size. Healing starts with self-love. There are so many traditions and reasons waist beads are worn.
Here are the most common reasons
Adornment- Waist Beads help women embrace and honor their sexuality. They make women feel beautiful and help with a positive body image, self-love and acceptance.
Intimacy- Waist beads are also worn for seduction and can provoke desire. Wives would often lure their husbands with the rattle of beads or use them as a means to communicate their fertility at certain times of the month.
Weight Management- The practice of wearing several waist beads over time will help to keep the waist small and accentuate the hips. They can be a good tool to measure weight gain and loss.
Celebratory Purposes- Throughout several countries in Africa, waist beads have been used to adorn girls in celebration of how they have matured. Traditionally, mothers adorned their daughters with waist beads during their first menstruation as a rise of passage into womanhood.
Waist Beads tell the story of our womb. They remind us that our curves and everything within our belly is what makes us Queens.
Which style should I choose?
I currently offer 4 different styles; threaded/ tie cord, elastic, and wire style.
I only have threaded tie cord waist beads ready-made and available in my waist bead studio
I have a small select of stretch and wire strands ready-made available.
You can submit a custom order by going to my master linktree.
You can get this link by texting (707)712-7080 & asking for my master link, or go to my Instagram/Facebook/Google … My master link is located at the top of my pages.
Add lobster clasp or barrel clasp style if needed but not recommended, which style clasp is determined on the material the waist beads are on.
Tie on waist beads is the authentic way of wearing waist beads.
I recommend wear waist beads with clasp is for wire waist beads and tie cord only.
Clasp come with gold/ silver plated, gold filled, or stainless steel.
Real gold & Silver can be ordered (per client request)
Pick a style that will better fit your lifestyle.
What is linktree?
Lintree is a master URL link that holds all the links to ALL my social platforms such as
Instagram, Facebook, and Jotforms to order custom waist beads, know about my parties, pop ups, FAQ (frequently asked questions) and so much more.
I’m always updating these links as needed.
Go check it out
Here's the difference between styles
The Elastic Style: My waist beads are strung together on sturdy elastic cord. Choose this option if you just want to wear the beads a few times, maybe on vacation, a party or a special occasion. The elasticity will eventually loose it's strength which makes this our least long lasting version depending on wearer. They stretch but can break if you stretch too much!
The Wire Style: This style of waist beads usually have gemstones, crystals, charms and are closed with a silver or gold plated clasp. This style is similar to the clasped style
The Threaded Style: With this option our waist beads are threaded on durable cotton thread. You'll need to tie this around your waist. It is our more permanent style and is meant not to come off. It can also be used with weight loss. As you loose weight the beads will loosen, at that point you can slide the extra beads off and retie at your new weight. This is the longest lasting style
The Clasped Style: Choose this option if you like to switch it up a bit. You can take this style off by simply unhooking the clasp. Make sure you follow the care instructions to keep it lasting long. This style is not flexible, there is no give as there is with the elastic style so be sure to measure yourself correctly. For longevity take off when showering/bathing and keep oils and lotion at a distance.
Care Instructions
Waist beads can be worn while bathing, swimming, exercising, during intimacy and while you sleep. Although the beads are waterproof, after showering or swimming, pat dry your beads. For luxury waist beads on wire with clasp, I suggest taking them off before showering and sleeping for long longevity. Store them in a jewelry box or cotton cloth for safe keeping. Be mindful to not pull on the beads when undressing or going to the bathroom.
When will my order ship?
For ready-made......
Once your order is placed, there is a 2-3 day handling time. This depends on how many orders I have a head of yours. My shipping day are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. No weekends or Holiday deliveries. Shipping is through USPS first class and usually take 3-5 days depending on your location/state.
Once shipped, tracking number will be entered and email will be sent.
Check your spam mail if you do not receive this email.
What are you shipping policies?
If you order was shipped to you and it is returned, contact me right away via text, let me know your order number. Once the items are returned back to me, I will ship them to you again.
A re-shipping free will have to be paid before I ship (shipping fee is $5) for standard package
See my shipping policies for more details
What are your return or exchange policies?
I have a no returns, no exchange policy
See my return policies for more details
What to do if something is wrong with my order?
Don't worry, I will work with you to get you right.
If there is a problem with your order, please do not wait or hesitate to contact me via text to (707) 712-7080
Allow me up to 24-48hrs to reply
(If I'm out of town, on vacation, etc. I will reply as soon as I return)
Plz do not DM me on my social media platforms, comment under my post on my social platforms, or email me.
Do you offer local pick up or fittings?
Yes, I offer pick up and personal fittings in my waist bead studio at the time of your appointment
Located in Vallejo.
If you are interested in getting waist beads, anklets, etc.
All you have to do is self schedule your free appointment or follow me on my social platforms to know about my walkins days, be sure to turn on my post notifications. You can also click on my linktree and sign up for my text notifications
You are sized/ fitted on by me (Trina) the day of your appointment. I have over 300 strand of waist beads in a wide variety of colors and styles for anyone up to 60 inches.
Do you offer online measurements?
No, I do not offer online/ visual fittings.
To learn how to measure yourself, go to my IG page waistbeads_by_trina,
I have a video on my page showing you have to measure your waist or you can look on YouTube, there are many how to measure your waist videos.
It's pretty simple to do.
When ordering online for pick up only
You have the option to select local pick up. After you purchase, you will receive confirmation your order is ready 24-48 hrs after purchase.I some cases, the same day.
Now, your ready to self schedule.You will receive notification your order is ready for pick up. This notification should be followed with my free booking link.
You will see the days and time I have available. Pick the day and time that is best for you. Keep in mind, my self scheduling page change every week on Sunday night for the following week.
Reading your text notifications will make your pick up go smooth.
Once you arrive, I will walk your order out to you.
Where are you located?
My waist bead studio is Located in Vallejo, Ca
35 mins from Oakland
45 mins from San Francisco
1hr.20 mins from San Jose
50 mins from Santa Rosa
60 min from Sacramento
Do I need to purchase online before self booking?
No, you do not have to order online before coming to get fitted for waist beads.Only time I recommend ordering online is if there is a one of a kind waist bead.
To book an appointment ....
Click the LinkTree icon at the bottom of my website or
Text me at (707)712-7080 and ask me for it
It's easy and free to book.
Once you book your appointment......
PLEASE READ MY BOOKING POLICY IN FULL TEXT/ EMAIL CONFIRMATIONS.
How long are appointments?
Appointments can take anywhere from 20min up to 45min per person, depending on how many waist bead strands & anklets your getting fitted for.
Please try to be mindful of time for other clients
Do you size/fit waist beads and anklets on during appointments?
Yes, I prefer to size on all waist beads, anklets and bracelets
Can I book a appointment just to come shop with no fittings?
Yes, you can book an appointment to come shop for yourself or someone else. Fittings are not mandatory.
Fittings is a FREE service I offer with purchase.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, you can purchase gift certificates on my website. Gift certificates are sent as soon as you purchase them and can be used the same day.
$25, $50, $75, $100
They never expire
They are perfect for gift giving.
Do you make a anklet with the left over waist bead?
YES, I love to make matching anklets IF I have enough left over beads AND string at the end to tie it.
Please keep in mind, anklets made with leftover beads from your waist beads are complimentary and are free!
I will not tie multiple small pieces together to make a anklet OR cramp my fingers to tie anklets too small.
However, you have the option to take them. I will package up them up for you to take home.
Don't worry If you do not have enough left over from your waist beads, you also have to option to
purchase anklets (one-time around anklet for
$5 each-solid/ mix colors
$10 with crystals/designs
If you want me to wrap around one strand of waist beads around your ankle to make anklets, its $5 for each time around.
One full strand of waist beads will wrap around 3-4 times depending on the size of your ankle.
How much do your waist beads cost and how long are they?
Waist beads start at for any of my Queen up to 45 inches
$10 each for solid colors
$15 each for mix colors
$20 each with crystals, glass stones, mixes/design
$25 & up with crystals, gemstones, glass stones, or charmed waist beads
Waist beads for my plus size Queens up to 60 inches
$20 each for solid colors
$25 each for mix/design colors
$40 each & up for crystals, gemstones, glass beads, or charmed waist beads
If you need more than 60 inches, I got you!
Order custom, link is in my linktree, Bio on my IG, on my Google or Fb page
What kind of beads do you use?
I use a variety of seed beads.
Mostly high quality seed beads like Czech Seed Beads, Miyuki, Delica Seed Beads and Toho Beads.
I mostly use size 6mm medium size beads to 8mm small size beads.
The size used for each strand will be in the description.
Knowing the size beads is helpful with insuring you order what you like.
I find some of my clients like the smaller beads, some like bigger beads, while some of my clients like both.
Do beads fade or lose it color?
Unfortunately, even though I buy high quality seed beads some will fade over time. No fault to you or me....
In most certain circumstances it's soaps or lotions that will cause them to fade pr dull over time.
Do not worry, when I see them during your appointment. I randomly replace waist beads for the same value (any color) or give you an upgraded strand for free or discount.
This is apart of my loyalty program for my clients.
If you do not like fading beads, purchase solid color beads only. Not transparent.
Colors that might fade over time
Some solid Gold & Silver beads
Some silver lined beads- Transparent glass with a silver lining for sparkle, comes in a variety of colors.
All solid (not transparent) color beads are pulled off my racks I notice they have faded/lose color.
I keep the transparent beads for my clients who love them to wear them. Myself included
Like I said before, sometime they fade and sometimes they do not.
What if my waist beads feel to tight after fittings?
If your beads feel to tight or to lose after getting fitted
If to tight but you can handle it, I suggest wearing them for a while, lose some weight, they will loosen and begin to loosen.
If to lose, you book an appointment to see if they can be tighten.
Chances are they will be up high above your waist.
I do not replace waist beads fitted on incorrectly. Please make sure BEFORE the final tie, they feel good and look good on you.
It your responsibility to make sure your strands of waist beads feel comfortable.
I have been fitting on waist beads for 10+ years,everyone comfort and how they liked them to be placed differs from person to person.
I will communicate with you while sizing them on AND trust me...I'm pretty good at it.
Just make sure to relax and do not to hold your stomach in while you are getting fitted. Make sure to dress in lose fitting clothes and clothes that can be removed, pulled up, so I can size/fit your waist beads next to your skin.
Fittings is a free complimentary service and is free of charge with purchase.
How long do your waist beads last? Will they break?
My waist beads will last you a long time. I have clients wearing beads they bought from me years ago. How long waist beads last depends on the wearer. Each strand have 20-40 lbs of pressure. I always open to give you a string during your visit for you to test the strength.
Waist beads break when pulled on. Usually they are forgotten about during bathroom time.
See my tips for longevity!
These tips are given to you after you've been adorned.
◇◇Tips for waist bead longevity ◇◇
1) Roll them up on the way to the bathroom
2) Roll them up when they feel tight
3) Roll them up if you’re feeling bloated or full from a meal
4) Roll them up when your sleeping
5) Do not let your partner/lover pull on them during sex
6) Be careful when undressing
7) Remembering you have on waist beads
8) Do not put lotion and oils on your beads
9) Do not let them stay tangled, carefully untangle them.
What is your policy for waist beads that break?
I do not replace broken waist beads or anklets.
If the strand is still intact or only lost a few beads, they can be remade over. I charge a re-make fee. Or you can purchase a repair kit.
Can charms be added to waist beads?
Yes, charms can be added to waist beads and I have some available. They come in gold/sliver plated, gold filled, and stainless steal. Gold or silver can be ordered prior to your appointment. You can also bring whatever charm you like to add.
Charms start $5 and up
How long do charms last without tarnishing or fading?
How long charms last depends on the wearer. Some body soaps and lotions can cause charms to fade. As you know charms are not "Real gold/ Silver" so they will fade over time. I try NOT to carry charms that tarnish
I always try to carry nothing but high quality gold filled charms, however I can not control how vendors advertise. If I know I have good charms, I stick to that vendor but some vendors will falsely advertise having gold filled charms but really be gold plated.
If I see tarnished charms or hear from my clients about charms tarnishing, I will not purchase from that vendor.
Look at charms like the earrings you purchase from the beauty supply store. Most of the time they fade or lose its shine, you go back and get a fresh new pair. :-)
Mostly all charms can be changed out for a new one.
If you do not like fake gold, you can purchase a real gold or silver charm for me to add to your waist beads OR you I can order one for you.
For my in person clients: When I see fading or tarnished charms. I will randomly change them out for another charm for free or discount. OR give you a discount on another strand.
That's the perks of being my loyal client.
Online loyal clients get the same perks....
Do not order waist beads or anklets with charms if you are allergic, read item descriptions in full before purchase and feel free to ask questions that's not already covered in my FAQ
Do you have a loyalty program?
Yes, my loyal clients get RANDOM loyalty rewards...
I love my clients so much, I wish I could give everyone something to show how much i love and appreciate them. However, I can't reward everyone at the same time.
So I created a loyalty rewards.
Here's a list of some of just some of the things you get....
*Discount/Discount codes (online clients)
*In house discounts (in person clients)
*Free strand of waist beads or anklet (in person/online clients)
*Change out a old/faded beads for another for equal or updated strand
*Resizing waist beads after weight loss
*Charm replacement for free or discount
*Gift for birthday, special celebration, or life event
This is just the beginning......
Do babies wear waist beads?
Yes, babies & toddlers can wear waist beads and/or anklets.
It's always an honor for me to adorn little ones.
If you have extras left from your waist bead strand, it can be added to your little one.
Waist beads/ Anklets for babies or toddlers
$8 each for waist beads
$5 each for anklets
Can you wear waist beads while pregnant?
Yes, you can wear waist beads while you are pregnant as long as you feel comfortable with them on. Depending on how many moths your are, they are fitted on above the belly. After your birth, they will lower. If to low, book an appointment to get them re-sized.
Check out my Instagram for the beautiful pregnant bellies I have beaded
Can I add clasp to my waist beads?
I do not recommend clasp on tie cord waist beads but yes, you can add clasp to your waist beads if you want the option to be able to take them off.
I only recommend clasp on wire waist beads only...
Do you talk about the significance of waist beads during appointments?
I LOVE to talk to my clients about the many reasons why women wear and adorn themselves with waist beads or talk about waist bead history.
However, It's important that you do research of your own prior to your appointment. You can scroll my IG page , I post info all the time.
Also Google search engine have tons of info.
Do you size on waist beads purchased from another waist bead vendors?
No, I do not size on, resize or fix waist beads purchased from another waist bead vendor. Sorry
I can re-make your old strand using the stones and charms from your old one but my style. This falls under custom order.
Do you make custom waist beads?
Although I'm not always available to make custom waist beads.....
Yes, I LOVE to customize waist beads! To find out if I'm open to taking custom orders.
Click the LinkTree icon at the bottom of my website OR
TEXT me at (707)712-7080
Letting me know your interested in ordering custom waist beads, I will be more than happy to send you my custom order link.
You can also find this link in my Bio on Instagram and Facebook
Custom waist beads take up to 3 to 4 weeks and require patience
Precise waist size measurements will be needed in inches at the time you place order. Pants size can not be used.
Once invoice is paid in full, I will get started on your order.
Price chart for custom is on the order form along with how to order steps
Do you have waist bead parties?
Yes, I love attending birthday parties, bridal showers, and ladies night in.
So gather up a couple of friends, and family members for a nice relaxing, night getting adorned.
I also offer small parties at my waist beads studio or waist bead making party (like paint & sip)
To inquire....
Click the LinkTree icon at the bottom of my website to submit a request form. More info & Prices is on the form
Events or parties are not locked in until form is submitted, deposit is received and a date have been mutually agreed upon
Do you have a social media platform?
Yes, my Instagram username is waistbeads_by_Trina
Facebook username waistbeadsbytrina
Tiktok user waistbeadsbytrina
Waist beads by Trina studio is 420 friendly!
Trina is 420 friendly :-)
Go check me out, be sure to follow and share!
Sending you Peace, Love & positive Light
Ase`