Seed bead sizes explained: 6/0, 8/0, 11/0 and 15/0
Why does a bigger number mean a smaller bead? Which size should you start with, and what is the difference between a seed bead and a Delica? A plain-English guide.
Bead sizing is one of those things that makes perfect sense once someone explains it — and nobody ever does. The number is roughly how many beads fit in one inch when lined up. So 15/0 beads are tiny (about fifteen per inch) and 6/0 beads are chunky (six per inch).
Which size to start with
- 8/0 — our favourite for first sessions. Easy to see, easy to thread, and the finished bracelet grows quickly.
- 11/0 — the standard for charted beadwork. Most patterns in our gallery assume 11/0.
- 15/0 — for fine detail and tiny earrings. Save these for when your eyes and fingers are confident.
- 6/0 — great for children, for people with reduced dexterity, and for bold statement pieces.
Seed beads vs cylinder beads
Round seed beads (Miyuki, Toho, Preciosa) are slightly doughnut-shaped. They give beadwork a soft, textured look and are forgiving of uneven tension. Cylinder beads such as Miyuki Delica are precise little tubes that lock together into a flat, fabric-like surface — perfect for pictures and lettering in peyote or loom work.
In the designer you can switch between square (cylinder) and round bead shapes so the chart looks like what you are actually stitching.
Buying in the UK
Japanese beads are the most consistent. Buy by the gram, keep the manufacturer’s colour code on the packet, and store beads in small screw-top pots — they are escape artists.
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Keep reading
Threads and needles: what actually matters
Nylon or braided line? Size 10 or 12 needle? Conditioned or not? Everything we tell new beaders about thread, in one place.
Read the article →