The beading calculator tells you how many beads and how much thread you need for bracelets, necklaces, anklets, and patterns. Enter bead size and project dimensions for instant results.
Bead Count Calculator
How to Calculate Beads for Jewelry Projects
For stringing jewelry, use beading wire (Beadalon, Soft Flex) for heavy beads or stretch cord for casual bracelets. Beading wire requires crimp beads at each end; stretch cord is knotted. Always test cord strength before finishing — fragile cord with heavy glass or stone beads will break quickly.
FAQ
How many beads do I need per inch?
Beads per inch depends on bead size: 11/0 seed beads ≈ 18-20 per inch, 8/0 ≈ 12-13 per inch, 6/0 ≈ 9-10 per inch, 4mm round ≈ 6.5 per inch, 6mm round ≈ 4.2 per inch, 8mm round ≈ 3.1 per inch. These are approximate — bead shape and stringing material affect count slightly.
How much thread do I need for beading?
Cut working thread 2-3× the finished length. For a 7-inch bracelet needing 2× = 14 inches minimum. Add extra for starting/ending knots and needle threading: total working length = finished length × 2.5. For bead weaving patterns, use 3-4× the finished length.
How do I calculate beads for a pattern?
For loom-woven or peyote stitch beadwork: total beads = width_in_beads × height_in_beads. Add 10-15% extra for mistakes and pattern adjustments. For a 20-bead wide × 30-row pattern: 20 × 30 = 600 beads minimum; buy 660-690 to have buffer.
Is this beading calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.