If you walk into a bead shop you could instantly experience a wonderful feeling because you would be able to set your eyes on so many colours, shapes and designs of the most wonderful beads around. No wonder some people can stay for hours inside bead houses just to marvel and check the beads as it would be hard for them to walk out of the store without buying anything because all they can see are wonderful things. So in case you want to buy beads and make presents for yourself and friends you have to know first what types of beads you would need so in order not to confuse yourself with the different kinds of beads and how they are used, this article could help you.

Seed Beads
These are probably the most popular of all beads because they are very common. Seed beads are small just like the seeds and also round in shape. They can be made practically of any shape and design you want. The standard types are made of plastic or crystals but there are also wood, jets, pearl and metal seed beads. Since seed beads are small, their sizes are referred to size 10 and 12 while the chunkier type is the size 8. They are very ideal for use in decorating garments and embroideries.

Sequins

These are not exactly forms of beads but are often used together or mixed with beads during embroideries or any sewing projects. Sequins are rounded pieces of metal or plastics that have holes in their centres or on one side. Some types are flat while others are cupped and used as decorations for garments and items that are sewn.

Centre Beads

You can see a centre bead usually in the middle of a jewellery piece, at the end of a dangle, a sewing design or on row of beads. They are larger than the ordinary beads so if you see beads with larger size, these are usually centre beads. Most of these are made of plastic, metal or glass but crystal are also available and more fascinating.

Oval or Rice Beads

Because they are oval and just like rice in shape, oval or rice beads are normally used in between spaces on dangles. Even though they are not on the centrepiece, they can still produce interesting effects when combined together with jewelleries. Their most common size is 1 centimetres and are available in different colours and materials.

This is just a glimpse of the main types of beads so that once you start exploring them you can at least categorise them according to their appearance, size, features and shapes. You can also use this as a guide to help you get an idea on what types of beads you would need for your project. However, do not hesitate to ask the sellers every time you see something different. Remember that the world of beads is a never-ending creativity affair so from time to time new breeds, types, and make of beads will be introduced in the market. Beads are usually imported from other countries so these are endless marvels created by artisans of different cultures and this is what makes beads more fascinating.

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Category: Arts and Crafts
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