SEED BEADS - SIZES AND TYPES

Seed beads are usually refered to by a number scale. The 'aught' size seems illogical at first since the higher the number the smaller the size. It is difficult to put an exact size on seed beads - the following table is designed as a guide only.

COMMON SEED BEADS AND MANUFACTURERS

The most famous seed beads in the world are made in Japan where there are 3 main manufacturers:

• TOHO
• MIYUKI
• MATSUNO

Toho and Miyuki are usually the most expensive. They are very uniform in size and extremely good quality. Beaders looking for a more cost effective alternative generally choose the Matsuno brand.

Seed beads are also produced in the Czech Republic. Czech seed beads are usually sold by the hank. Again they very consistent in size and ideal for uses such as loomwork.

The most economical seed beads are produced in China. Less uniform in size but perfectly suited to many jewellery making applications