Bead JewellerySeed bead sizes explained — 8/0, 11/0, 15/0 and what they mean
Seed beads in graduated sizes — the little numbers on the tubes decide what your stitches can do.
Seed bead sizing confuses every beginner exactly once: the LARGER the number,
the SMALLER the bead. Size 8/0 beads are bigger than 11/0; 15/0 are tiny
grains. This "aught" system dates to how many beads fit per inch of thread —
and it still governs everything from hank lengths to which stitches are
physically possible.
The common sizes
| Size | Approx. diameter | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 6/0 | ~4mm | Bold stringing, chunky spacers |
| 8/0 | ~3mm | Beginners' weaving, strong strands |
| 11/0 | ~2mm | The all-rounder — peyote, RAW, herringbone |
| 15/0 | ~1.5mm | Fine detail, texture, miniature work |
11/0 is the default weave size: enough mass for satisfying progress, small
enough for curvy shapes.
Japanese vs Czech
Japanese seed beads (the major makers are famous for it) are cylinder-shaped
and dimensionally uniform — they stack into even, brick-like fabric, which is
why precision weavers prefer them. Czech seed beads are rounder with slight
variation — the character suits organic, freestyle pieces and they're often
the colourful workhorses of strung designs. Neither is better; they do
different jobs.
Practical notes
- Hole size matters more than bead size — thin thread through a tight
hole will fray; test your thread through the bead before committing. - Mixing sizes in one woven piece is a texture technique, but keep the
STRUCTURE rows in one size. - Finishes: galvanised and dyed finishes wear faster at friction points;
silver-lined and transparent colours age best.
Where to see size scales in person
The
fashion jewellery workshop
and the
essentials certificate
put professional stock in your hands — the fastest way to internalise what
8/0 vs 11/0 actually means for a design. Related reading: the
bead types compared and
gemstone beads guide.
What students say
“I will use the skills learnt to develop a line of metalsmithed jewellery.”
— Clarie K. (Singapore) · published student feedback
“I am using the skills in my everyday life and my spare time has become very productive.”
— Shirley M. (Philippines) · published student feedback
Free ways to explore
No sign-up, no payment — start with any of these.
The school's free guide to gems — reading companion to the webinars.Free gem webinar replaysFREE
Full recorded sessions on gems and the jewellery trade.Play Name That GemFREE
The school's free gem-identification game — addictive.The complete course guideFREE
Every course, family and diploma in one PDF.
Turn beading into a certified skill
JDMIS in Singapore runs hands-on fashion jewellery and beading courses, from one-day workshops to a full Fashion Jewellery Arts diploma.
Visit jdmis.edu.sg