10 Places to Get Beading Supplies for Your Business

With the perfect beading supplies, you can create beautiful earrings, bracelets, and more for your business. Whether you make one-of-a-kind pieces or sell bulk products, there are plenty of places to find high-quality beads, charms, wires, and findings at unbeatable prices. In this article, we’ll reveal 10 great places to get exactly what you need to bring your vision to life. Let’s dive in!

The Beading Market

The global beading market is thriving and is projected to maintain its momentum through 2028. Even with fluctuating economic conditions, jewelry making continues to be a favored hobby, leading to a significant increase in demand for beading supplies. With the emergence of new manufacturers providing competitive pricing, consumers now have more choices than ever for crafting handmade jewelry.

Top Places to Buy Beading Supplies Online

When you’re shopping for beading supplies online, it’s important to choose a store you can trust. From materials for large projects to simple findings and hardware, here are the top online places to shop for beads and other supplies:

1. Amazon

Amazon is a top online destination for buying beading supplies. It offers a wide variety of products, competitive pricing, and fast shipping options.

2. Etsy

Etsy is a popular online marketplace for buying beading supplies. It offers unique handmade items, vintage finds, and a vibrant community of sellers.

3. GoodyBeads

GoodyBeads offers affordable and high-quality beading supplies for DIY jewelry making, with over 20 years of experience and excellent customer service.

4. Beads Factory

Family-owned Beads Factory provides an extensive selection of high-quality beading supplies both online and in-store. They are also a leading supplier of Preciosa and Crystals.

5. Beadaholique

Beadaholique is a top source for beads, jewelry supplies, and learning resources with fast worldwide shipping, free tutorials, and quality products.

6. Shipwreck Beads

Shipwreck Beads is family-owned since 1969, the largest US retailer of Czech glass beads with an impressive 80k sq. ft. showroom stocked with billions of beads and more.

7. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

Fire Mountain Gems and Beads sells beading supplies online since 1973, with a focus on valuing relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees.

8. Artbeads

Artbeads, a family-run business for 17+ years, offers vast beading supplies and hosts a large community of beaders, making it a top online destination.

9. eBay

eBay is a top source for buying beading supplies online. With a vast selection, competitive pricing, and reliable shipping, it’s a popular choice among beading enthusiasts.

10. Michaels

Michaels is a go-to destination for buying beading supplies online. Their diverse inventory, weekly sales, and curbside pickup option make shopping for beads easy and convenient.

Essential Beading Supplies

For stunning beaded jewelry, you need the right beading supplies, including tools, findings, and beads, with consideration of bead size. Once you invest in the items below, check out these 16 craft supply storage ideas to keep them organized. Important supplies for a beading business include:

Seed Beads

Seed beads are tiny, round beads commonly used in bead weaving, loom work, and embroidery. Originating from Venice in the 15th century, these beads are often used in traditional indigenous beading projects. The sizing can be a bit confusing, as a larger number indicates a smaller bead.

Bugle Beads

These are long cylindrical beads that come in various lengths and finishes. Bugle beads are a staple in bead embroidery and can create texture and lines in jewelry pieces. However, their sharp ends can fray threading materials if not properly protected.

Delica Beads

Made by the Japanese company Miyuki, Delica beads are cylinder beads perfect for detailed bead weaving due to their uniform size and shape. They stack neatly, making them a favorite for patterns that require precision.

Crystal Beads

Crystal beads, typically linked to brands such as Swarovski or Preciosa, are crafted from lead glass that has been precisely cut to enhance light refraction. Their dazzling sparkle and brilliance make them highly desirable for creating elegant jewelry pieces.

Lampwork Beads

Lampwork beads are handcrafted by melting glass using a torch. The melted glass is wound around a metal rod, creating beads of various shapes and designs. The craftsmanship and uniqueness of each bead make them special.

Gemstone Beads

Made from genuine gemstones, these beads can be faceted or smooth. Their value varies depending on the gem type, and they often carry metaphysical meanings. Popular stones include amethyst, turquoise, and jade.

Wooden Beads

These are carved from various types of wood. Wooden beads can be painted, stained, or left natural. They offer a bohemian or rustic look to jewelry and crafts.

Bone and Horn Beads

Historically, bone and horn beads were made from actual animal bones or horns. They are often carved with designs and can have a tribal or ancient aesthetic.

Pearl Beads

Both natural and cultured pearls can be used as beads. Freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls are all varieties. Their lustrous sheen adds elegance to any project.

Shell Beads

Made from sea shells, these beads have a natural iridescence. Commonly used shells include mother of pearl, abalone, and cowrie.

Metal Beads

Made from a variety of metals, these beads can serve as basic spacers or feature complex designs. Commonly used metals are sterling silver, gold, brass, and pewter.

Ceramic and Porcelain Beads

Crafted from clay and subsequently fired, ceramic and porcelain beads may be either glazed or unglazed. Due to their handcrafted origins, these beads often feature distinctive and artistic designs, making them a popular choice among those seeking beading supplies.

Acrylic Beads

These are plastic beads that come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are lightweight, making them suitable for larger statement jewelry pieces.

Czech Glass Beads

Originating from the Czech Republic, these beads are known for their quality and craftsmanship. They come in numerous shapes, sizes, and finishes, from faceted fire-polished beads to unique pressed shapes.

Trade Beads

Historically, these beads served as a form of currency, particularly in Africa. Trade beads are known for their vibrant colors and diverse patterns, which contribute to their collectibility.

African Waist Beads

Originating from African cultures, waist beads are worn around the waist for various reasons, including adornment, marking milestones, or symbolizing wealth.

Tila Beads

Another creation by Miyuki, tila beads are flat, square beads with two holes. They offer unique possibilities in bead weaving.

SuperDuo Beads

These are two-hole beads shaped like an hourglass or a figure-eight. SuperDuo beads are popular in bead weaving due to the intricate patterns they can create.

Bead Type	Shape/Structure	Main Material	Common Uses	Unique Features/Properties
Seed Beads	Tiny, round	Glass	Bead weaving, loom work, embroidery	Sizing can be inverse; larger number indicates a smaller bead.
Bugle Beads	Long, cylindrical	Glass	Bead embroidery	Sharp ends can fray threading.
Delica Beads	Cylinder	Glass	Detailed bead weaving	Uniform size and shape; stacks neatly.
Crystal Beads	Various (often faceted)	Lead glass	Jewelry	Brilliant sparkle due to light refraction.
Lampwork Beads	Various	Glass	Jewelry, art pieces	Handcrafted; each bead is unique.
Gemstone Beads	Various	Gemstones	Jewelry, spiritual practices	Made from genuine gemstones; metaphysical meanings.
Wooden Beads	Various	Wood	Jewelry, crafts	Can be painted, stained, or natural; rustic look.
Bone and Horn Beads	Various	Bone, Horn	Jewelry, tribal crafts	Often carved with designs; tribal aesthetic.
Pearl Beads	Round, oval	Pearl	Jewelry	Lustrous sheen; can be natural or cultured.
Shell Beads	Various	Sea Shells	Jewelry	Natural iridescence.
Metal Beads	Various	Metal	Jewelry	Can be made from silver, gold, brass, pewter, etc.
Ceramic & Porcelain	Various	Clay	Jewelry, crafts	Handcrafted; can be glazed or unglazed.
Acrylic Beads	Various	Plastic	Jewelry	Lightweight; wide range of colors.
Czech Glass Beads	Various	Glass	Jewelry	Known for quality; many shapes, sizes, finishes.
Trade Beads	Various	Glass, ceramic	Jewelry, historical currency	Colorful with various patterns; historically significant.
African Waist Beads	Tiny, round	Glass, crystal	Adornment	Worn around the waist; cultural significance.
Tila Beads	Flat, square	Glass	Bead weaving	Two holes; uniform size.
SuperDuo Beads	Hourglass/figure-eight	Glass	Bead weaving	Two-hole beads; enable intricate patterns.

Beading Needles

Beading needles are thin, elongated needles specifically designed to fit most bead holes. They make stringing beads easier, especially for detailed work like bead weaving or embroidery. Their sizes vary, with smaller numbers indicating thicker needles.

Beading Thread

Beading thread is a specially designed thread for beadwork. It’s typically stronger and more resistant to fraying than regular sewing thread. Brands like Nymo, FireLine, and C-Lon are popular choices, each offering different strengths and thicknesses suitable for various projects.

Beading Wire

Beading wire, like Tiger Tail or Soft Flex, is made of several strands of stainless steel wires woven together and then coated with nylon. It’s flexible yet strong, making it ideal for stringing heavier beads or creating jewelry pieces like necklaces and bracelets.

Crimp Beads

These are small beads or tubes made of metal. When flattened with crimping pliers, crimping beads secure beading wire ends, ensuring that beads stay in place and that clasps are securely attached.

Bead Caps

Bead caps are decorative accents designed to cover the ends of beads, enhancing their overall look. They provide an elegant touch, particularly for larger or focal beads.

Bead Stoppers

Bead stoppers are small, spring-like tools that temporarily grip the end of your beading wire or thread, preventing beads from sliding off when you pause or adjust your work.

Spacer Beads

While not “beads” in the decorative sense, spacer beads are functional components used to separate and frame more prominent beads in jewelry designs. They help in achieving a balanced look.

Clasps and Closures

Clasps and closures are mechanisms used to open and close jewelry pieces like necklaces and bracelets. There are various types, including lobster claw, toggle, magnetic, and hook-eye clasps, each offering different aesthetics and functionalities.

Headpins and Eyepins

Headpins are metal wires featuring a flat or decorative end, whereas eyepins have a loop at one end. Both are essential for creating bead dangles or connecting beads together.

Jump Rings and Split Rings

Jump rings are circular metal rings with a split, allowing them to open and close. Split rings resemble tiny key rings. Both are used for attaching components together, such as adding a charm to a bracelet.

Beading Supply	Description	Primary Material	Main Use	Unique Feature/Property
Beading Needles	Thin, elongated needles designed to fit most bead holes.	Metal (often steel)	Stringing, bead weaving, embroidery	Sizes vary; smaller numbers indicate thicker needles.
Beading Thread	Strong thread designed for beadwork.	Synthetic fibers	Bead weaving, stringing beads	Resistant to fraying; various strengths and thicknesses available.
Beading Wire	Woven stainless steel wires coated with nylon.	Stainless steel, nylon	Stringing beads, especially heavier ones	Flexible yet strong.
Crimp Beads	Small beads or tubes made of metal.	Metal	Securing ends of beading wire	Flattened with crimping pliers to secure.
Bead Caps	Decorative elements that fit on bead ends.	Metal, plastic	Enhancing bead appearance	Adds an elegant finish, especially to larger/focal beads.
Bead Stoppers	Spring-like tools that grip the end of beading wire/thread.	Metal	Pausing work without beads sliding off	Temporarily holds beads in place.
Spacer Beads	Functional components used between decorative beads.	Metal, glass, plastic	Achieving a balanced jewelry design	Not decorative but frames more prominent beads.
Clasps and Closures	Mechanisms for opening and closing jewelry pieces.	Metal	Fastening jewelry pieces	Various types offer different aesthetics/functionality (e.g., lobster, toggle).
Headpins and Eyepins	Metal wires with a flat/decorative end (headpin) or loop (eyepin).	Metal	Making bead dangles, linking beads	Headpins have a flat end; eyepins have a loop.
Jump Rings and Split Rings	Circular metal rings. Jump rings have a split, while split rings resemble key rings.	Metal	Attaching components together	Jump rings open/close; split rings spiral multiple times for added security.

Beading Tools for Business

A successful beading business needs the right tools and equipment to make high-quality necklaces and other jewelry. Beyond the basics, here are some additional tools to consider:

Crimping Pliers

Crimping pliers are specifically designed to work with crimp beads. They have two notches: one to crimp (flatten) the bead and another to shape it, ensuring a neat finish.

Bead Mats

Bead mats are soft, usually velvet-like surfaces that prevent beads from rolling around while you work. They offer a safe and organized workspace, ensuring that even the tiniest beads don’t escape.

Bead Boards

These are trays with grooves and compartments designed to help you plan out jewelry designs, especially necklaces or bracelets. Bead boards allow you to measure, arrange, and adjust bead placements before stringing.

Wire Cutters

Wire cutters are essential for cutting beading wire, headpins, and eyepins. They ensure clean cuts, which are crucial for professional-looking jewelry finishes.

Beading Scissors

These are small, sharp scissors used for cutting beading thread or other fine materials. Precision is crucial in beading, making these an essential tool.

Beading Loom

A beading loom is a tool used for bead weaving, allowing artists to create intricate patterns and designs by weaving beads together using thread.

Bead Reamers

These are tools designed to enlarge, smooth, or otherwise modify the holes in beads. Bead reamers are especially useful when a bead’s hole is too small for a thread or wire.

Thread Burner

A thread burner is an alternative to scissors for cutting beading thread. It heats up and melts the thread, preventing frayed ends and making for a cleaner finish.

Knotting Tool

A knotting tool is used to create knots between beads or pearls, resulting in a finished jewelry piece that drapes nicely and keeps beads from sliding around.

Bead Spinner

A bead spinner is a device that helps to string beads quickly and easily onto thread or wire, making it a great time-saver for large or complex pieces.

Beading Tool	Description	Primary Material	Main Use	Unique Feature/Property
Crimping Pliers	Specifically designed to work with crimp beads with two notches.	Metal	Crimping and shaping crimp beads	Two notches for both crimping and shaping beads.
Bead Mats	Soft, velvet-like surfaces preventing bead roll.	Fabric	Organized workspace for beadwork	Keeps even the tiniest beads from rolling away.
Bead Boards	Trays with grooves and compartments for planning jewelry designs.	Plastic, wood	Planning and measuring jewelry designs	Helps pre-arrange bead placements before stringing.
Wire Cutters	Essential for cutting beading wire, headpins, and eyepins.	Metal	Cutting wires and metal components	Ensures clean cuts for a polished jewelry finish.
Beading Scissors	Small, sharp scissors for cutting beading thread.	Metal	Cutting beading thread and fine materials	Precision tool for fine cuts.
Beading Loom	Tool for bead weaving to create intricate patterns.	Wood, metal	Weaving beads together using thread	Allows for detailed bead weaving patterns.
Bead Reamers	Designed to enlarge or smooth bead holes.	Metal	Modifying bead holes	Useful for beads with holes too small for certain threads or wires.
Thread Burner	Melts beading thread for clean cuts.	Metal, plastic	Cutting beading thread	Prevents frayed ends, ensuring a cleaner finish.
Knotting Tool	Used for creating knots between beads or pearls.	Metal, wood, plastic	Knotting between beads and pearls	Results in jewelry that drapes well and keeps beads securely in place.
Bead Spinner	Device for quick and easy stringing of beads.	Wood, plastic	Speedy stringing of beads onto thread or wire	Time-saving tool for large or intricate beading projects.

What Material Is Best for Beading?

The best material for beading depends on the type of project you’re working on and the look you want to achieve. Some popular materials include glass, gemstones, and metal, each offering different textures and finishes to create unique jewelry pieces.

What Is the Most Important Beading Tool?

Pliers are considered the most important beading tool. They are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including bending and shaping wire, opening, and closing jump rings, and attaching findings to finished jewelry.

Are Beading Businesses Profitable?

Beading businesses can be profitable. In fact, it’s among the top 50 handmade business ideas you can start from home. But success depends on factors such as market demand, competition, and pricing strategy.

Launching a successful beading business entails more than just creating beautiful pieces. Strategic planning, marketing acumen, and a deep understanding of your target audience are equally essential. Embracing both the craft and the commerce can lead to a rewarding venture. Here are some tips for creating a profitable beading business:

• Find Your Niche:
  • Identify unique beadwork or jewelry styles that cater to a specific audience, setting your brand apart.
• Quality Over Quantity:
  • Prioritize the quality of materials and craftsmanship to build trust and loyalty among customers.
• Effective Pricing:
  • Calculate material, labor, and overhead costs, then set a profitable price point while considering market trends.
• Online Presence:
  • Establish an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify and maintain active social media profiles to showcase your work and connect with potential customers.
• Craft Fair Participation:
  • Attend craft fairs, pop-up shops, and local markets to gain exposure and directly interact with customers.
• Continuous Learning:
  • Stay updated with the latest beading techniques, trends, and business strategies by attending workshops or online classes.
• Networking:
  • Build relationships with suppliers for better deals and with other artisans for potential collaborations or referrals.
• Customer Feedback:
  • Actively seek feedback and reviews to continually improve your products and services.
• Inventory Management:
  • Keep a meticulous record of your bead inventory and sales to forecast demands and avoid overstocking.
• Diversify Product Line:
  • Provide a diverse selection of products, catering to both budget-conscious shoppers with affordable options and discerning clients seeking premium items.

Remember, patience and persistence are crucial. As with any business, building a reputable and profitable beading brand will take time, but with dedication and the right strategies, success is attainable.

What Is the Best Website to Buy Wholesale Bead Supplies?

There are many websites that offer wholesale bead supplies, but the best one for your business will depend on factors such as product selection, pricing, and shipping options. Our top list above should help you find the right wholesaler. This list of where to find wholesale craft supplies includes even more options.

Can You Buy Beading Tools Where you Buy Jewelry Supplies?

Yes, many stores that sell jewelry supplies also carry beading tools such as pliers, wire cutters, and beading needles. You can find these tools in-store or online at retailers like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and Joann.

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "10 Places to Get Beading Supplies for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends