How to Choose the Right Bead Wire Size

Choosing the right size of bead wire is an important first step in creating beautiful jewelry.

Unlike jewelry wire, which is a single strand of brass, copper or other material, beading wire is made of multiple strands of fine stainless steel wire. The number of strands can range from seven to 49. More strands equals greater flexibility. This twisted wire is coated with nylon that allows beads to glide smoothly over it. Beading wire comes in a variety of sizes from .25 millimeters to .91 millimeters. Popular, general use sizes are .38 millimeters and .46 millimeters. It's important to choose the right bead wire size before beginning a project.

Things You'll Need

• Beads
• Beading wire

Instructions

1. Select beads and study the hole sizes. Choose a beading wire that will fill as much of the hole as possible. For example, a seed bead will likely require a .25-millimeter wire and a large bead might require a .91-millimeter wire.

2. Consider bead weight. A heavy strand of beads will require a thicker diameter bead wire.

3. Consider use. Bracelets are subjected to more wear and tear than necklaces and need a thicker diameter bead wire. Necklaces that are worn daily need a thicker wire than one worn occasionally.

References

• Beadalon: Choosing the Right Beading Wire
• Let's Bead: Beading Wire

Resources

• JEMLibrary: Beading Wire and Tigertail for Jewelry Making