Choosing the Right Needle for Your Next Jewelry Making Project

Whether you are new to beading or a seasoned pro, the number of needle choices can be overwhelming. At Beadaholique, we have 68 needle choices alone – that’s a lot! So why are there so many different needles? Well, different needles are best for different projects. Sometimes it is all about the size of the beads and thread you are using and sometimes it is about what technique you are doing. In this blog, we will break down some of the most popular needle styles and sizes and discuss why you might choose them.

Beading Needles

Often just referred to simply as “beading needles” these are your basic needles that you will use for most bead weaving projects and basic stringing projects that do not use beading wire. They usually range in size from 10 – 13 (10 being thicker with a larger eye and 13 being thinner with a very small eye). They also come in short and long sizes. You would choose a thinner needle (like a 12 or 13) if your beads are particularly small or if you think you will have to make numerous passes through a single bead. Also remember that your beading thread will have to be quite thin to fit through a size 12 or 13 eye. Most of the time choosing the long or short version is really a personal preference. Sometimes you might need a longer needle in your design, but usually they are interchangeable. Also, there is a type of beading needle called an English Beading Needle - these are quite stiff and have no bend to them. 

Big Eye Needle

Big Eye needles have a big eye, just like their name suggests. Because of their big eye, they can accommodate any size thread. They are also a little flexible which can be nice for getting between closely spaced beads. They are good for stringing projects, especially those that use stretch cord. These are definitely the easiest of all needles to thread!

Twisted Wire Needles

These handy twisted wire needles are extremely flexible and have a big enough eye to slip thicker threads and some cords through. They are ideal for using with S-Lon cord when stringing beads onto the cords for beaded kumihimo. They also can fully curve if you ever need to get around a curved area.

Bead Embroidery Needles

Bead embroidery needles are good for embroidery projects, especially when you need to pass through fabric or another textile. They come in a wide variety of thicknesses and sizes – you will choose the right one for your specific project based upon the size of the stringing material you are using and the size of the beads (if you are using beads).

Loom Needles

As the name suggests, loom needles are best for bead looming. They are nice and long which is what allows you to keep entire rows of beads on the needle as you create your weft threads and rows of beads. They are sturdy and durable and good for multiple bead passes.

I hope this quick overview of the most popular needle styles helps you choose the right needle for your next project!

Check out our entire needle selection!