Where do you buy your beading supplies?

United States
May 2, 2007 2:12am CST
For all of you beaders and jewelry makers out there -- where do you buy your beading supplies? I am looking for some sites online to buy supplies from. Right now I get most of my stuff from Hobby Lobby, Michael's, etc, and sometimes it gets a bit pricey. I can't buy stuff in too big of lots, because I have a somewhat limited amount of space for my supplies (my bedroom is also my beading room. It also happens to be my boyfriends bedroom also). Of course, I am looking for quality materials, and something that hopefully isn't terribly expensive for shipping. I would really appreciate any info! If you want to take a look at some of the stuff I have in stock right now, my shop is www.tangerinesunshine.etsy.com Thank you!
3 people like this
13 responses
• United States
2 May 07
I don't buy beading supplies, but I have heard lots of good things (here and elsewhere) about Fire Mountain Gems. Also, since you are on Etsy, you might want to search for supplies there. There are a lot of people who sell beads there, and you may be able to find some good deals on smaller lots of beads.
3 people like this
• United States
2 May 07
I have bought a few things on etsy before, I've found some really cool stuff there, especially vintage beads and charms. Thanks!
1 person likes this
@dopey22girl (3319)
• United States
8 May 07
I too am into jewelry making, and I just buy my beads from the local craft stores, such as Michael's and some others. I think it's great that you made this post because I am looking for a good website as well. I don't sell anything I make though, because I like to wear it! Lol. I hope you have good luck selling what you are making! And happy beading! :)
3 people like this
• United States
2 May 07
you should really check out Fire Mountain Gems. HUGE catalog its like 500 pages or so. catalog is free too. they have all the supplies you could need..and tons of beads ie: gemstone, glass, metal, natural, pearls, acrylic, seed, and crystal beads, etc etc. tons. http://www.firemountaingems.com/
2 people like this
• United States
2 May 07
Thank you very much! I will definitely take a look at their catalog, especially if they'll have a lot of stuff I don't usually see in stores! (that's my favorite part about shopping online, finding new types of beads I don't see on my usual trips to the store)
1 person likes this
@blondbat (503)
• United States
7 May 07
I know that Fire Mountain Gems is supposed to be a great source, but I have heard some less-than-nice things about them on another forum. I usually purchase direct retail in my area, so I really can't recommend any one mail order company. I did just get some referrals on the other forum, but since I can't cut and paste yet, we are both out of luck. If you are interested - blondieybat@hotmail.com
@twilight021 (2059)
• United States
2 May 07
Hey Mango, I'll put in a nod to www.firemountaingems.com like the other posters did. Be sure to check out their clearance section. I swear I think I did most of my shopping "outlet". You can also buy in either big or small amounts. Be sure to get on their mailing list to get heads up on sales and special "events" they have. They have really good customer service and even throw in little freebies with your purchase. Another place you might want to check out is Ebay. They are many reputable bead sellers there. I have bought many natural/stone beads on Ebay and have always been pleased withthe quality and the (most importantly) the price I paid. Just be sure to double check the shipping, if you are familiar with eBay, you know that's where sellers often try to get you. :-)
• United States
2 May 07
Thank you! I am going to sign up for Fire Mountain's mailing list right now, and I'll take a look at their stuff as soon as I get home tonight :) I have done a little shopping on ebay, I've found a lot of nice lampwork beads there, but I haven't really looked around much lately.
• United States
5 May 07
I also buy from Fire Mountain but I also look through E-bay, I have found tons of beaads through there. I also shop at WanderingBull.com. They have some great native American craft items.
3 people like this
@leeesa (884)
• United States
2 May 07
Fire Mountain online has a huge variety and great prices! YOu should check it out. If you're only making stuff for personal use, the Michaels etc. is ok, but if you're trying to profit, then you need to buy wholesale!
3 people like this
• United States
10 May 07
I find a lot of good deals on lampwork beads on eBay. A lot of auctions start at 99 cents or less and there is so many bead sellers on eBay, that you can usually snag a deal for cheap.
10 May 07
I have found some great bargains on eBay and there are loads of sellers on there, offering some wonderful beads at bargain prices
2 people like this
• Malaysia
10 May 07
I have fren here selling amble. He found the raw amble rock in local jungle, then process them in his own, and selling them in bulk. If you are interested, i could send further infomation to you because he doesn't has a commercial website.
1 person likes this
• Australia
1 Jul 08
I have been beading pretty much ever since I remember, so I have a huge collection! I have limited myself to only buy precious metal beads, gemstones and swarovski until I have used some of the beads I have already. I do sell my beads - everyday - to family, friends and aquaintances, sometimes to people online who are on the look out for a special type of bead. I buy my gemstones from Australia (locally) and my other beads from USA. I love beads!
• United States
15 Dec 07
Come and pay us a visit www.iBead.com
• Indonesia
11 May 08
Feel free to visit http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5701704 you could have many beautiful beads supply such as bone beads,glass and lampwork beads... FREE mini spa package or colorful natural box from BALI for every purchase!
• United States
18 Feb 09
Hi there, I actually am liquidating a beading business I recently shut down due to lack of time to pursue it. I have over $10k worth of gemstones from Turquoise from Arizona, to Brazillian Aquamarine, several cuts of Amethyst, Garnets, etc...also beading wire, findings, unique pendants, etc...that I am trying to sell. I am just trying to liquidate it to people that have a love for jewelry making. If you are interested please email me, I am extremely motivated to below wholesale costs. I recently moved into a new place and have no room for the inventory. I also have jewelry display items like neck forms that haven't been used, jewelry transportation and display bags, etc... Please email me if interested m7s7jones@gmail.com Sarai