DIY Jewelry Beads
Beads for DIY jewelry: materials, shapes and design ideas
Beads are at the heart of DIY jewelry making: they allow you to create unique, colorful, or minimalist pieces, from the simplest bracelet to the most elaborate designs. If you want to choose the right beads for your style and assembly technique, this page will help you quickly find your way.
On Gingerlily, you will find a wide selection of beads for jewelry : natural beads, seed beads, mother-of-pearl/shell, glass, acrylic and many more, available in different sizes and shapes to suit all projects.
How to choose your pearls? (material, size, style)
To choose your beads effectively, start by defining the desired look and the mounting technique:
- Material : natural stone for a chic look, rockery for patterns and finesse, mother-of-pearl for luminosity, glass for brilliance, acrylic for lightness.
- Size : small beads for fine jewelry, larger beads for a statement piece.
- Shape : round (classic), faceted (shiny), heishi/round (trendy), teardrop/oval (elegant).
- Drilling : must be compatible with your wire (nylon, steel, elastic) or findings.
Tip: For a harmonious result, choose a central pearl (larger or brighter) and build your composition around it.
The main families of beads for DIY jewelry
- Natural beads : stones, minerals, faceted beads, chips, heishi.
- Seed beads : small beads for fine stringing, weaving and patterns.
- Mother-of-pearl / shell : luminous beads, perfect for summer jewelry.
- Glass beads : shiny, regular, very “jewelry-like”.
- Acrylic beads : lightweight and colorful, ideal for pop art creations.
DIY craft ideas with beads
- Beaded bracelet : simple stringing with a central bead and a charm.
- Minimalist necklace : a few spaced-out beads on a thin chain.
- Earrings : dangling pearls on eyelet studs or sleeper earrings.
Creation scenario: compose a beaded bracelet (material of your choice), add a more prominent central bead, and finish with a clasp and an extension. You'll obtain a harmonious, durable piece of jewelry that's easy to give as a gift.
Access the bead collections directly
👉 See all our beads for DIY jewelry : access the collection
FAQ — Beads for DIY Jewelry
Which bead should I choose for an easy bracelet?
Round or heishi beads are ideal. Seed beads are perfect for a thin and colorful bracelet.
How to choose the size of the beads?
Small sizes for a delicate look, larger sizes for a statement piece. Also consider comfort when wearing it.
Can different materials be mixed?
Yes, it's very trendy: mother-of-pearl + gold, natural stone + stainless steel, seed beads + charms, etc.
Which thread should be used depending on the beads?
It depends on the drilling and the project: elastic for a threadable bracelet, steel wire for durable necklaces, nylon thread for seed beads and fine mountings.
Which DIY project is the easiest to start with?
A strung bracelet (elastic) or a chain necklace with a few beads and a pendant.
Other beads and supplies are available in the Gingerlily shop.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only and are not contractually binding.