The short answer: use parchment paper (baking paper) or dedicated craft ironing paper. Both are silicone-coated, non-stick, and heat-safe. Avoid wax paper, which melts onto the beads, and plain printer paper, which sticks.
The paper is the barrier between the hot iron and the beads. It has one job: protect the beads from direct heat and stop them from sticking. Only silicone-coated paper does this well.
The ranking
- Dedicated ironing paper: thick parchment, pre-cut, lasts longest. Sold by craft brands.
- Kitchen parchment: the budget favorite, works identically, replace when browned.
- Silicone baking mat: reusable and non-stick, good for large flat pieces.
- Avoid: wax paper (melts), greaseproof paper (sticks), printer paper (sticks), newspaper (ink transfers).
How to check your paper
Read the package: it should say parchment, baking, oven-safe, or silicone-coated. If the paper is translucent and waxy, it is wax paper, do not use it. When in doubt, iron five spare beads on a corner to test. Full ironing details are in our ironing guide, and the parchment method specifically in our parchment FAQ.