Pearls and Beads for Bags

🔴 12/0 Seed Beads and Rocailles seed beads · fabric embroidery · multicolored bracelets

12/0 seed beads — also called rocailles or seed beads — are the smallest and most uniform beads in our range: the benchmark format for fabric embroidery. The 12/0 size indicates a diameter of approximately 1.7–2mm, perfect for detailed decorations, borders, fills and embroidered geometric patterns. Thanks to their uniformity, they are also ideal for multicolored friendship bracelets, keychains and appliqués on clothing. Available in a wide range of solid, metallic and translucent colors.

✨ Glass beads 4mm · 6mm · 8mm · durable and luminous costume jewelry

Glass beads are among the most popular for DIY costume jewelry: they are brilliant, durable over time and offer excellent value for money. Available in the most common sizes — 4mm, 6mm and 8mm — they are suitable for bracelets, necklaces, earrings and pendants. Faceted versions (also called rondelles or spacers) add even more brightness by alternating flat surfaces that reflect light from different angles.

💠 Faceted half-crystal beads elegant jewelry · maximum brightness · jewelry effect

Faceted half-crystal beads offer maximum brightness with the typical effect of precious jewelry — ideal for necklaces, elegant bracelets, formal earrings and high-end fashion accessories. The facets multiply light reflections, creating a brilliant effect that enhances any creation. Available in transparent crystal, colored, and with aurora borealis (AB) coatings for highly sought-after iridescent effects.

🔵 Plastic and acrylic beads lightweight · affordable · ideal for children and large projects

Plastic and acrylic beads are the ideal choice for creative projects with children, educational workshops, bag decorations and projects that require large quantities at a low cost. They are extremely lightweight, available in many shapes (round, oval, teardrop, heart) and bright colors, and are easy to thread onto any wire or cord. They are also excellent as decorative beads for crochet bags, appliqués on clothes and colorful handmade accessories.

What are 12/0 seed beads and how are they used?

12/0 seed beads (also called rocailles or seed beads) are small beads approximately 1.7–2mm in diameter, the smallest and most uniform ones available. They are mainly used for fabric embroidery — stitched with needle and thread onto Aida cloth, linen or clothing — and for friendship bracelets. The 12/0 size is the standard format for bead embroidery.

Which beads should I use to decorate crochet bags?

For beads for crochet bags, we recommend plastic or acrylic beads — they are lightweight, do not weigh down the bag and are easily stitched onto the crocheted fabric. 6-8mm glass beads are ideal for more luminous and precious details. Pair them with bag ornaments for a complete result.

What is the difference between glass beads and plastic beads?

Glass beads are heavier, shinier and more durable over time — ideal for long-lasting costume jewelry and quality pieces. Plastic beads are very lightweight, affordable and available in many shapes — perfect for decorations, creative workshops and projects where large quantities are needed or costs need to be kept low.

How are beads used for embroidery?

Beads are sewn onto fabric using a fine embroidery needle (no. 10–12) and matching sewing thread or DMC embroidery floss. You attach one bead at a time using the couching stitch. 12/0 seed beads are the ideal size for this technique: small and uniform, they adapt perfectly to the weave of Aida cloth and embroidery linen.

Can beads be used for amigurumi?

Yes — small plastic beads are used for decorative details on amigurumi: noses, buttons, and clothing elements. For amigurumi intended for young children, it is preferable to use safety eyes or embroider details directly onto the yarn, avoiding beads that could detach. For adults and children aged 3 and up, securely sewn beads are instead a common and decorative choice.

Where can you buy beads for jewelry making and embroidery online?

At LacariaRicami.Store you will find beads and seed beads for DIY jewelry, fabric embroidery, and handmade decorations: 12/0 seed beads, rocailles, glass beads, faceted crystals, and plastic beads. Fast shipping throughout Italy with delivery in 24–48 hours.