SELECTING THE RIGHT NEEDLES & THREAD FOR YOUR CRAFT PROJECT
Needles & Thread for Beading

Needle sizes are like bead sizes; the larger the number the smaller the size. A #10 needle can be used with 
10/0 beads, a #11 with 11/0, and so on. The #12 Sharps and #15 Beading needles are the smallest sizes 
available so they are best for 14/0 to 16/0 beads. However, some beads may have holes that are too small 
even for these needles.


Thread and needle sizes also depend on the beadwork technique to be used. Gourd stitch and loomwork 
require the needle to pass through the beads twice, so use a thread size small enough to allow this. In lazy 
stitch, the needle goes through only once but the thread should fill up the holes in order to create the 
characteristic "humps" in the rows of beadwork.

Nymo thread is best for gourd stitch, earrings, lazy stitch, applique, and weft threads for loomwork. For 
warp threads on beadlooms, cotton thread is recommended as it does not stretch like Nymo. Use Quilting 
thread for 12/0 and smaller, and Button & Carpet for 10/0 and 11/0. Nymo can be used for warp threads, 
too, but it should be pre-stretched before use, even for gourd or lazy stitch. Thread should be coated with 
beeswax during use as this helps prevent tangling and prolongs the life of the thread.

Size "A" or "00" Nymo is best for 13/0 and smaller beads; Size "B" is good for 11/0 and 12/0 and size "D"
works well for both 10/0 and 11/0 beads. Size "F" is quite heavy and is good for 5/0 & 8/0 pony beads, as 
well for an all around craft thread for heavy duty sewing of items like moccasins, clothing, drumstick heads, 
leather bags, and similar items.

Beading Needles

These long thin needles are used primarily for loomwork, but also work quite well for gourd stitch and 
beaded earrings. Needle size indicates the smallest bead size for which that needle is intended; however, a 
smaller size needle is used when it must pass through the bead twice as in gourd stitch, loomwork, or earrings.