What Are Delica Beads?

Delica beads are produced by computer-operated machinery making them very uniform in size and color..

Beads have been used for centuries to adorn clothing and create works of art. Seed bead is the term used to describe beads produced in factories. Delica beads are both a brand and type of seed bead that is produced in Japan.

History

Seed beads originally were hand made from materials such as glass, metal, and bone. Each bead had to be crafted individually. In the mid seventeenth century, machines were developed to mass produce seed beads from tubes of blown glass. Today, Delica beads are produced in Japanese factories with automated machinery.

Features

Automated manufacturing ensures that the size of Delica beads is uniform. The height of a Delica bead is equal to its width. The beads are cylindrical in shape and can be smooth or six sided. The walls of a Delica bead are very thin which allows them to have a larger center hole. They come in a variety of colors. Most Delica beads are a single color, some bi-colored varieties are available.

Function

Delica beads are most commonly used in the production of bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Their smooth, even surfaces make them suitable for loomed projects. Because of their uniform shape, Delicas beads work exceptionally well in patterns that are precise and symmetrical. Their larger holes make them easy to use with yarn in knitting or crochet projects.

References

• Beadage: Delica Beads
• Beading Culture: Glass Seed Beads