

As you already know, beads differ from each other by their shape,size and colour. I would like to continue the previous post about popular types of beads. They are sized in millimeters from 2 to 10mm or even larger. These can be made from plastic, wood, glass or semi-precious stones. They are sized in millimeters from 3 to 10mm. They are useful as accent or feature beads, and I use them quite frequently. Crystal beads are a good example of faceted beads. Most common in gemstone jewelry but there are many different beads that are available faceted. Shaped beads can be found in a variety of materials: metals, glass, plastic and wood.Ī faceted bead has many flat surfaces (called faces or facets) cut into it that reflects light. Bugle beads are mainly used for edgings and fringes.Īpart from the usual cylindrical shape, there are also other shapes of beads – triangles, squares and hexagonal (six sided) – which can give an unusual and different texture to your project. Take care when using them as they can have quite shape edges which could cut through thread. They are sized in millimeters, the most common sizes being 2, 3, and 5mm. Delica beads are more expensive than seed beads, but well worth using for that special project.īugle beads are long cylindrical beads available in a variety of colors, finishes and twists.

There are only two sizes – size 11 and the larger size 8. They are ideal for bead weaving where a very flat, smooth finish is required. These superior beads are perfectly cylindrical in shape and have thin walls and large holes. They are usually more doughnut-shaped than Japanese beads, and are best used for off-loom beading and bead embroidery * Czech beads range in size from 7 to 20. They are ideal for all types of beadwork. They are thought to be more uniform in size and have larger holes than the equivalent size of Czech bead. * Japanese beads are cylindrical in shape and range in size from 6 (the largest) to 22 (the smallest). Seed beads are the most popular type of bead. It is impossible to mention every bead available, so I focus on the most common ones. Most beads are sold either by weight (grams) or in hanks. So, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of finding a good supplier who will be able to advise you on the best beads to use. There are many types of beads available, and choosing the right beads for a project is essential. If you are lucky enough to find one of these rare, vintage beads, it will certainly add a striking feature to the bracelet, as well as being an interesting story to tell your friend.Įlegant or classic? The beads can make all the difference! However, most of the factories were destroyed during the war. They are often used as dividers between other beads but they are also striking by themselves.īefore World War II, there was a huge bead industry in eastern Europe where many factories made beads out of glass, metal, aluminum and steel. They are delicate beads which range in style and size, from ovals to rectangles.

If you want to make a simple and classic accessory, then you might like the sound of seed beads. Some of the most notable makers of lead crystal include Swarovski (Austria), Steuben Glass (USA) and Arc International (France). Surprisingly, these gems are quite soft, so great care must be taken to ensure you do not scratch the surface. Lead oxide is added to molten glass which gives these beads an amazing shine and shimmering effect. If you want to make a glamorous and feminine bracelet, then I would recommend using lead crystal beads.
BEAD SHAPES AND NAMES HOW TO
If your friend or loved one already has a lot of elegant jewelry such as diamond rings and silver necklaces, then why not surprise them with a one of a kind, handmade beaded bracelet? Once you have read my articles on how to make your own jewellery, now is the time to decide which beads you should use.
