I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Beading Thread For Seed Beads (2023)
Choosing the right beading thread for your seed bead projects is crucial for creating beautiful and long-lasting jewelry. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to determine which thread is best suited for your needs. When selecting a beading thread, there are a few key factors to take into consideration: fiber type, thread size, color, wax coating, and strength.
The fiber you choose, whether nylon, silk, polyester, or another synthetic, will affect the durability, flexibility, and texture of your finished piece. Thread size is also important, as you'll need an appropriate diameter to fit through your seed bead holes without excess friction. Make sure to select a color that blends into your beads or contrasts nicely. Waxed threads help prevent tangling and add stiffness, while unwaxed threads provide more flexibility. Lastly, check the rated strength of the thread to ensure it can withstand the tension needed for your project.
With all of these variables, how can you decide what the best beading thread is for your seed beadwork? Should you go with a trusted brand name or take a chance on a lesser known option? Is a higher thread count always better? Do you need stretch resistance for your design? By asking the right questions ahead of time, you can narrow down the choices and select a thread that meets all of your beading needs.
10 Best Beading Thread For Seed Beads
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1
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The product is ideal for stringing seed beads, creating jewelry, or hanging lightweight decorative items due to its non-stretch, invisible clear wire.
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2
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The product is ideal for making bracelets and jewelry, stitching leather, and beading with its invisible nylon thread.
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3
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The product is ideal for making party decorations, jewelry, bracelets, and stringing seed beads.
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4
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The product is ideal for creating stretchy bracelets and beaded jewelry with ease.
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5
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The product is ideal for adults interested in making jewelry such as bracelets and belts using a beading loom.
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6
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The product is ideal for stringing and threading delicate beads, providing strength and durability for jewelry making.
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7
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The product is ideal for jewelry making and embroidery with seed beads, providing a complete set of beading needles.
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8
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The product is ideal for loom weaving, off-loom stitching, and jewelry making with seed beads; made in England.
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9
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The product is ideal for making bracelets, seed beads waist beads, and various types of jewelry.
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10
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The product is ideal for jewelry making or beading projects with Delica beads.
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1. Mandala Crafts Clear Nylon Seed Bead String – 328 Yds
The string that I purchased was incredibly thick and sturdy. I was very impressed with its durability and would highly recommend it to others. It worked perfectly for the bracelets that I needed to make. The only minor issue I encountered was that it was slightly too big for the tiny seed beads that I had, but it still worked well with other types of beads. In the future, it would be helpful if the sizing description provided more detailed information to avoid any confusion. Despite this small inconvenience, the overall service was excellent. I appreciate the prompt and efficient customer service provided.
2. Pandahall Nylon Seed Bead Thread: Strong & Invisible
The black and white thread set comes in a clear plastic baggie that has an Amazon inventory label stating it's made in China, while the thimble labels on the spools say it's made in Japan. The image on the product listing may be misleading as it shows a brown thread instead of black and white. However, the size of the thread is clearly stated as 100 yards, so complaints about its size seem unwarranted.
As someone who has been a beader for a long time, I have experience with various types of threads, and while this black and white thread set is not my favorite, it performs decently with one small issue. The threads come in two spools, each labeled and wrapped in plastic to keep them secure.
The problem I have with this set is that the two threads are different sizes, with one listed as size 6 (brown) and the other as size 2 (white). This is a significant jump in size, which may not be ideal for some projects.
In terms of performance, I find that the thread does not stay on the spool as nicely as other brands I have used. I often have to keep the wrapper partially on to prevent the thread from unwinding completely. However, the spool does have a notch to help keep it in place, which is a plus.
For seed bead projects, this thread works decently well, especially if you wax it first. However, if you plan to make multiple passes or use beads with irregularities in the holes, such as Czech beads, the strength of this thread may not be sufficient. It is more suitable for earrings with long fringe rather than freeform neck pieces.
Despite the discrepancy between the country of origin stated on the baggie and the spool labels, the thread itself is of good quality. The set includes one light and one dark thread, which can be useful for certain projects. However, the difference in sizes and the annoyance of the spools may be a drawback for some users.
3. Ph Pandahall Nylon Thread For Diy Jewelry Making
I recently purchased this string for a project, despite being warned by Rick that it was not suitable for hanging ornaments. I decided to give it a try anyway and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. The string is quite cute and perfect for various projects.
I have already used up most of the string, hence the sparse amount in the picture. However, I must say that the quality of this string is excellent. It feels sturdy and I haven't experienced any snapping issues. Although the string tends to come out when knotted, this is expected for a material of this kind. To reinforce the knots, I simply use a hot glue gun, which works like a charm. I will update if any knots happen to break, but so far, everything seems to be holding up well.
The only downside I found is that the length of the string is a bit short. I had to order more to complete my project, which was a bit inconvenient. It would be great if it came in a longer length.
In terms of quality, this string is top-notch. It is stretchy enough to be used for making necklaces and bracelets, and it is well-made. However, keep in mind that it may not fit in beads with a hole size less than 3mm.
4. Stretchy Bracelet String Kit
This string is perfect for creating bracelets with small holes. The needles included may not be suitable for this particular project, but they can be used for other crafts. It took some trial and error to figure out the right tightness for tying the string, but with a few attempts, it was achieved successfully.
I purchased this string specifically for making wrist and ankle bracelets, and I am pleased with the elastic stretch it provides. The bead threaders that come with it make the whole process much easier. The bracelet in the attached photo was my test creation, and I must say it turned out pretty good. I am excited to make more bracelets using this string.
I highly recommend this string for making bracelets and waist beads. It is durable and stretchy, perfect for these types of accessories. I have only experienced it breaking once out of numerous uses, but if you pre-stretch it properly beforehand, you should not encounter any issues. Additionally, despite its thin appearance, it lasts longer than expected.
This string fits perfectly with my beading needles and spinner. The elastic material is both stretchy and durable, making it easy to tie together. Overall, I highly recommend this string for various crafting projects.
5. Simply Bead – Complete Adult Jewelry Making Kit
I recently tried my hand at beading for the first time, and I must say, it was a breeze! Although I did notice that some of the beads included in the set were a bit oddly shaped, I wasn't too bothered by it. After all, it was the loom itself that I was really interested in, and it did not disappoint.
I actually gifted this loom to my 13-year-old daughter for her birthday, and once she figured out how to thread the string onto the loom, she had no trouble at all. It was great to see her quickly pick up the technique and create beautiful beadwork.
One thing that pleasantly surprised me about this set was that it came with small bead trays to keep the beads separated. This made the whole beading process even more organized and enjoyable. Kudos to the makers for this thoughtful addition.
Setting up the loom and using it was a breeze. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, making the whole experience hassle-free. I appreciated that I didn't have to spend hours figuring out how to assemble the loom or struggle with complicated techniques.
6. Nymo Nylon Beading Thread Size D For Delica Beads – White 64 Yards (58 Meters)
I recently purchased this thread for my ornament-making hobby, and I must say it is perfect for the job! The thread is very flexible and works exceptionally well for beading. In fact, it is one of the best threads I have ever used. Despite the photos being slightly misleading and the thread being smaller than anticipated, it still offers great value for the money. I highly recommend it.
I was in search of a thread that would be ideal for beading onto fabric, and this thread turned out to be exactly what I needed. It is great quality and has met my expectations. I am so satisfied with this product that I will definitely be purchasing more in the future. I had checked various craft stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Walmart, but none of them carried this thread. Thankfully, I found it online, and it has proven to be the perfect solution for my beading projects.
Although the thread turned out to be smaller than I had anticipated, it still looks great. I haven't used it on a loom yet, but I did unravel some of the string and found it to be of high quality. The thread has a nice appearance and seems to be durable. Overall, I am happy with my purchase and would recommend it to others who are looking for a reliable thread for their crafts.
7. Jewelry Making Needle Set: Yolev Beading Needles
I recently purchased the Yolev Needle Set and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. The set offers great value for money and the variety of needles included is impressive.
One of the standout features of this set is the sharpness of the needles. They are much easier to use than traditional scissors and make cutting through fabrics a breeze. I found them to be durable and they did not bend or break even when working on complex projects.
The set includes 28 shiny metal needles, which are perfectly sized for various crafting needs. The included needle threader is a helpful addition and makes threading the needles a simple task. The silver color of the needles adds a touch of elegance.
The packaging of the set is also worth mentioning. The needles are neatly organized in a convenient bottle, making them easily accessible and keeping them organized. This is a thoughtful design feature that I appreciate.
Considering the quality of the needles and the variety of tools included, the price of €6.99 for the set is more than reasonable. In fact, I have seen similar sets in specialty stores priced much higher for just a few needles or threaders. This set truly offers great value for money.
The only minor disappointment in the set was the finger ring, which is more of a joke than a useful tool. However, this does not detract from the overall quality and usefulness of the set.
8. Beadsmith Eng. Beading Needles: For Beadwork & Jewelry Making
I have been using Miyuki delica bead size 11 and I must say that these needles are a great companion for my beading projects. They are easy to thread and don't bend unless excessive force is applied. Occasionally, I do need to switch to slimmer needles when working with round beads that have been threaded multiple times, but those can be quite challenging to thread. Nevertheless, these needles remain my favorite choice.
One of the standout features of these needles is their length, which allows me to hold numerous beads at once. Although the small eye can make threading a bit tricky, it also makes it easier to pass through small beads. I have even used size 8 seed beads with these needles and there was still room to spare. Additionally, the slight flexibility of the needle comes in handy when weaving round shapes.
I was pleasantly surprised when I received my order as I thought it was just a single pack of needles, but it turned out to be a small box containing numerous needles. This was a bonus for me, as I now have a good supply to work with.
In terms of durability, these needles have held up well so far. They easily glide through the beads with ample room, making the beading process smoother. However, I haven't been able to use them with the thread I ordered specifically for them, as I received a different thread that didn't fit the needle. This issue has been put on hold for now, but I will update my review once I have resolved it.
I purchased these needles primarily for their long eyes, as I had trouble threading my smaller eye beading needles. While I did break the eye on one of the needles, I still had others to continue with my projects. I have learned to be more careful when threading to avoid such mishaps, but overall, these needles have made my beading life much easier.
9. Stretchy Elastic Thread For Bracelets And Jewelry Making
I recently purchased this bracelet making string and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its performance. The stretchiness of the string is simply incredible, providing a secure hold for all my bracelets and rings. I have not experienced a single breakage since using this string, which speaks volumes about its durability.
One aspect that I particularly appreciate is the inclusion of the little scissors. They are sharp and make cutting the string a breeze. It saves me a lot of time and effort, allowing me to focus on my crafting without any hassle.
I also want to highlight the excellent customer service provided by the company. Initially, I had some concerns about the scissors I received, but the customer service team promptly reached out to me and offered a replacement or a refund. This level of attentiveness and commitment to customer satisfaction is truly commendable. It gives me confidence in shopping with this company, knowing that they prioritize their customers' needs.
I have been a repeat customer of this product, having purchased it multiple times, and I will continue to do so in the future. The color selection is fantastic, and the overall quality is outstanding. I highly recommend this bracelet making string to anyone in need of a reliable and high-quality option.
10. Kook K.o. Japanese Nylon Beading Thread For Delica Beads, 50m, Black
I recently had a beadwork project that was giving me some trouble, mainly because I was using the wrong thread. However, I came across this amazing beading thread that completely changed the game for me. Let me tell you, it is fantastic!
First of all, this thread is incredibly durable. It doesn't fray, knot, or tangle easily, making it a dream to work with. It's also not overly waxed or sticky, so it doesn't leave any residue on your beads. The strength of the thread allowed me to pass it through size 15/0 seed beads multiple times without any issues.
One thing that impressed me about this thread is its size. It comes in a generous length of 55 yards (50 meters), which is perfect for my beading projects. The pictures provided by the seller give you a clear idea of what you'll be getting before placing your order.
I have previously tried using regular thread for my wrap bracelet beading projects, thinking it would suffice. However, after trying this KO thread, I can say with confidence that it is a hundred times better. It even eliminates the need for a needle if the bead hole is big enough. The knots hold securely when you want them to, but they don't turn into a giant mess of knots when you don't need them.
This thread has quickly become my go-to choice for loom work and fringe work on my beading projects. It doesn't kink or knot up, allowing for a smooth and seamless flow during the entire process. Its durability is also impressive, ensuring that my creations will withstand the test of time.
If I have to nitpick, the only issue I've encountered with this thread is the occasional tangling while looming. However, I must admit that it's more likely due to my own technique rather than a flaw in the thread itself. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with its strength and quality, and I firmly believe that it is worth every penny.
FAQs
Are there any special techniques or tips for working with beading thread when using seed beads?
When working with beading thread and seed beads, there are several techniques and tips that can help ensure a successful outcome.
1. Choose the right thread: When working with seed beads, it is important to use a strong and durable thread that can withstand the tension and weight of the beads. Nylon threads such as Nymo or Fireline are popular choices, as they are known for their strength and flexibility.
2. Use a beading needle: Beading needles have a small eye and a thin, sharp tip, making it easier to thread seed beads onto the thread. They come in different sizes, so choose one that is appropriate for the size of your seed beads.
3. Condition the thread: Before you start beading, it is helpful to condition the thread by running it through a thread conditioner or beeswax. This helps to prevent tangling and fraying, making it easier to work with.
4. Use a stop bead: To prevent your seed beads from slipping off the end of the thread, start your project by adding a stop bead. This can be a larger bead or a bead with a different color, which you will remove later.
5. Maintain tension: When working with seed beads, it is important to maintain tension on the thread to ensure that the beads stay in place. This can be achieved by pulling the thread taut after adding each bead.
6. Secure your thread: To secure your thread at the end of your project, weave it back through several beads and tie a secure knot. You can also use a dab of jewelry glue for added security.
By following these techniques and tips, you can enhance your experience of working with beading thread and seed beads, resulting in beautifully crafted jewelry or other beaded creations.
Are there any specific brands of beading thread that are recommended for working with seed beads?
Yes, there are several brands of beading thread that are highly recommended for working with seed beads. One of the most popular and widely used brands is Nymo. Nymo thread is known for its strength and durability, making it ideal for projects that involve seed beads.
Another popular brand is FireLine, which is a braided beading thread made of gel-spun polyethylene. FireLine is extremely strong and resistant to fraying, making it a great choice for working with delicate seed beads. Other recommended brands include Wildfire, KO Thread, and S-Lon.
It's important to choose a beading thread that matches the size and weight of your seed beads, as this will ensure a secure and professional finish to your projects.
Can you use regular sewing thread for seed bead projects, or is specialized beading thread necessary?
While regular sewing thread can be used for seed bead projects, specialized beading thread is generally recommended for the best results. Regular sewing thread may not be as strong or durable as beading thread, which is specifically designed to withstand the tension and stress that can be placed on the thread when working with seed beads.
Beading thread is often made from materials such as nylon or polyester, which are known for their strength and resistance to fraying or breaking.
Specialized beading thread also tends to be thinner and more flexible than regular sewing thread, making it easier to pass through the small holes of seed beads and create intricate designs. It is specifically formulated to provide a secure and reliable hold for the beads, ensuring that your projects last longer and are less likely to come undone.
While it is possible to use regular sewing thread in a pinch, investing in specialized beading thread will likely yield better results and make your seed bead projects more enjoyable and durable in the long run.
How do you choose the right beading thread for working with seed beads?
When choosing the right beading thread for working with seed beads, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you want to ensure that the thread is strong enough to withstand the weight and tension of the beads.
Look for threads specifically designed for beadwork, such as nylon or polyester threads like Nymo or Fireline.
Another important consideration is the thickness or weight of the thread. This will depend on the size of your seed beads and the desired outcome of your project. Fine threads like size D or size OO are suitable for smaller seed beads, while thicker threads like size B or size F can handle larger beads.
It's also worth considering the color of the thread. If you're using transparent or light-colored beads, you may want to choose a thread that matches the color of the beads to minimize its visibility.
Lastly, personal preference plays a role. Some beaders prefer the drape and flexibility of nylon threads, while others prefer the strength and stiffness of synthetic threads like Fireline.
Ultimately, the right beading thread choice will depend on your specific project and preferences. It's always a good idea to experiment with different threads to find what works best for you.
How does the thickness of beading thread affect the outcome of seed bead projects?
The thickness of beading thread can significantly impact the outcome of seed bead projects. Thicker thread, such as a size 10 or 12, is more durable and provides added strength to the finished piece. This is especially important for projects that require more tension or have heavier beads.
Thicker thread also gives a more substantial look to the piece and can enhance the overall design.
On the other hand, thinner threads like size 15 or 16 are ideal for delicate seed bead work or projects that require intricate detail. They allow for more precise stitching and give a more delicate appearance to the finished piece.
Thinner threads also make it easier to pass through multiple beads or small bead holes.
Ultimately, the choice of thread thickness depends on the specific project and desired outcome. It is essential to consider factors such as bead size, design complexity, and the intended use of the finished piece.
Experimentation with different thread thicknesses can help determine the best option for each project.
Is it necessary to condition or pre-stretch beading thread before using it with seed beads?
It is not necessary to condition or pre-stretch beading thread before using it with seed beads, but it can be beneficial in certain situations.
Conditioning beading thread involves treating it with a thread conditioner such as beeswax or Thread Heaven. This helps to prevent the thread from tangling, fraying, or breaking while you are working with it. It can also make the thread more resistant to wear and tear over time.
Pre-stretching beading thread involves pulling it tightly between your hands or using a weight to stretch it before you start using it. This can help to remove any excess stretchiness or elasticity in the thread, which can cause your finished piece to sag or lose shape.
Whether or not you choose to condition or pre-stretch your beading thread depends on personal preference and the specific project you are working on. If you are using a particularly delicate or expensive type of thread, it may be worth the extra effort to condition or pre-stretch it.
However, for most basic beading projects, it is not necessary and the thread will work just fine without any additional treatment.
What are the different types of beading thread available for seed bead projects?
There are several types of beading thread that are commonly used for seed bead projects. Some of the most popular ones include nylon thread, polyester thread, and silk thread.
Nylon thread is a strong and durable option that is commonly used for seed bead projects. It comes in various thicknesses, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your project. Nylon thread is known for its flexibility and resistance to stretching, making it a good choice for projects that require a lot of movement.
Polyester thread is another common option for seed bead projects. It is also strong and durable, but it has a slightly different texture compared to nylon thread. Polyester thread is known for its resistance to fraying and its ability to hold knots securely.
Silk thread is a more delicate option that is often used for smaller seed bead projects. It has a soft and smooth texture, which makes it easier to thread through small seed beads. Silk thread is known for its strength and durability, although it may not be as strong as nylon or polyester thread.
Ultimately, the choice of beading thread depends on the specific requirements of your seed bead project. It's important to consider factors such as the size and weight of the beads, the desired flexibility of the finished piece, and any specific design considerations.
What are the pros and cons of using nylon thread versus polyester thread for seed bead projects?
When it comes to choosing between nylon thread and polyester thread for seed bead projects, there are several factors to consider.
Nylon thread has its advantages. Firstly, it is known for its strength and durability, making it a good choice for projects that require high tension or heavy beads. Nylon thread also has a slight stretch, which can be beneficial for creating flexible and comfortable jewelry.
Additionally, nylon thread is resistant to UV rays and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor or water-related projects.
On the other hand, polyester thread also has its merits. Polyester thread is known for its excellent colorfastness, meaning it resists fading even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. This makes it ideal for projects where vibrant and long-lasting colors are desired.
Polyester thread is also heat-resistant, making it suitable for projects that involve ironing or heat-setting.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. Nylon thread may fray more easily than polyester thread, so extra care may be needed while working with it. Polyester thread, on the other hand, can be slightly stiffer, making it less flexible compared to nylon.
Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polyester thread depends on the specific requirements of your seed bead project. Consider factors such as strength, stretch, colorfastness, and flexibility to make an informed decision.
What is the best type of beading thread for seed beads?
When it comes to choosing the best type of beading thread for seed beads, there are a few factors to consider. One of the most popular options is nylon beading thread. It is strong, flexible, and comes in various thicknesses, making it suitable for different sizes of seed beads.
Another option is Fireline, which is a braided thread made of gel-spun polyethylene. Fireline is known for its exceptional strength and durability, making it suitable for intricate beadwork and projects that require a lot of tension. Additionally, Nymo thread is also commonly used for seed beads.
It is a twisted nylon thread that is available in different thicknesses and colors. Nymo is known for being lightweight and easy to work with. Ultimately, the best type of beading thread for seed beads depends on personal preference, the project at hand, and the desired outcome.
It's always a good idea to experiment with different types of thread to find the one that suits your needs and preferences.
What is the most durable beading thread for seed beads?
When it comes to choosing a durable beading thread for seed beads, there are a few options to consider. One of the most popular and widely used threads is nylon beading thread. Nylon thread is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for seed bead projects that require a sturdy thread.
It is resistant to fraying and can withstand regular wear and tear.
Another option to consider is beading wire, specifically designed for seed bead projects. Beading wire is made of multiple strands of stainless steel or nylon coated wire, providing extra strength and flexibility.
This type of thread is ideal for projects that require a more secure and long-lasting hold.
Ultimately, the choice of beading thread depends on the specific project and personal preference. It is advisable to test different threads and see which one works best for your specific needs. Additionally, consider the weight, thickness, and color of the thread to ensure it complements your seed bead design.