Dazzling Double Color Seed Bead Bracelets

DID YOU KNOW?

A seed bead is a generic term used for any small bead. Seed beads are about the size of small bird seed. They are usually rounded in shape and are most commonly used for bead weaving and stitched jewelry projects. Seed beads are also used for simple stringing jewelry projects, or as spacers between other beads.

Most current, high-quality seed beads are made in Japan, India, or the Czech Republic. Bead making has been a commodity in the area of the Czech Republic for hundreds of years. Seed beads from Japan are generally more uniform in size, shape, and finish. They also have larger holes than Czech seed beads of the same size, but the Japanese make fewer styles. Less uniform seed beads are made in India, China, and Taiwan. Seed beads range in size from 10/0 to about 22/0. The larger the number, the smaller the size. The larger sized seed beads are usually used by beginners. Beads smaller than 13/0 are rarely made today. Most beaders use size 11/0 or 12/0.

Besides jewelry making, seed beads are used for primarily used for covering a surface of an object, like a bag or a pair of moccasins. Seed bead patterns are known for their intricacy. Though these beads are tiny, they create beautiful designs.