I'm super sorry to here that you lost them. That's awful!
I use paper Clips. I pull the paper clip straight out and make the hook at the bottom. I use Eye Pins, and put the paper clip hook though the eye pin top (Goggle them if you're not sure what they are) and then dip them in the glaze. Once I've dipped them, I get a dixie cup and hang them over to let them dry.
BUT! Since you're making beads, I would suggest buying some really cheap paintbrushes and painting the glaze on just the outside of them. Don't do the inside, because like you've figured out they'll stick.
Hope that Helped. I'll check this thread a little later today in case you have any questions as to what I said
