Hi, I just started stringing beads and pearls about 6 months ago and this part - beginning and ending a strand - is the hardest part for me. There's a long discussion on another thread in this forum under Gimp, which must be an old term. I've tried some of the hints given here like making a needle by shaving the tread and stiffening it with gum arabic. You could probably use glue or some nail polish too, but gum arabic washes off. At first, I didn't think this worked. The string got stiff but not enough to force back through the hole. Then I got it through but it was so fine it broke off. Finally, I got it to work but I think reaming out the last 2 or 3 beads is much easier. Sometimes if the beads are glass or a hard substance like sapphire or quartz, it is better just to end the strand with gold or silver beads with larger holes.
I can't find any detailed instructions in any books... they make it sound easy if it's discussed at all. The only pearl knotting class in my city, only teaches the crimps technique. If anyone can suggest a good book, I'd be happy to buy it. Thanks.