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You don’t need much to start. Here’s what you need for your first bracelet, and what can wait.
Beads
Our patterns are designed for Miyuki Delica 11/0 beads (codes starting with DB). Delicas are small glass cylinders with very even sizes and big holes, so they sit neatly side by side and the picture comes out crisp. Each pattern’s color list tells you exactly which ones you need. See Delica beads explained for how to read the codes and how many to buy.
Other beads will work, but the finished size will change, and round seed beads give a softer, bumpier picture.
Thread
Bead weaving uses strong, thin thread. Popular choices:
- Nylon beading thread such as Nymo, One-G, KO or S-Lon (also sold as Superlon). Soft and easy to work with, and a good choice for loom warps and peyote. Size D or B suits Delica 11/0.
- Braided thread such as FireLine or WildFire. Very strong and doesn’t stretch, which is great for pieces that get a lot of wear. It’s stiffer, so some beaders prefer it for peyote and nylon for the loom.
Pick a color close to your main bead color, or a neutral like white, gray or black. It shows a little between the beads.
Needles
Use beading needles, which are thin enough to pass through a bead more than once. Size 10 or 12 works for Delica 11/0. Bigger numbers are thinner. For the loom, a long beading needle makes it easier to pass through a whole row at once.
A bead loom (for loom patterns)
Loom patterns need a bead loom. A basic loom is inexpensive and fine for bracelets. Check that it’s wide enough for the pattern: you need one warp thread more than the number of beads across, and the loom’s springs or slots have to hold them evenly. Peyote patterns don’t need a loom, just your hands.
Handy extras
- Bead mat: a soft mat stops beads rolling away.
- Small sharp scissors or thread cutters.
- Thread conditioner or beeswax: helps nylon thread untangle and resist fraying.
- Bead scoop or tray, to get beads back into their tubes.
- Good light, and reading glasses or a magnifier if you need them. Delicas are tiny.
- A clasp for the finished bracelet. See finishing a bracelet.
Our picks
Want to skip the research? See our recommended supplies for a pick in each of these, with links. Every pattern’s page also lists the exact bead colors it needs, with links to buy them.
Your first pattern
Start with something narrow and short, with only a few colors. Our beginner-friendly patterns are a good place to look, and the bead count on every pattern tells you how big a job it is.
