If you're new to bead craft, or think you may be interested, one of the first queries that might spring to mind is where you can buy beads online. Fortunately, there are a lots of dependable web vendors, but before you race to find them, it might be worth taking a second to consider the benefits and disadvantages of ordering beads on the internet.

The major benefit to being able to buy beads online is, naturally, ease. From the comfort of your chair, you can browse a staggering array of selections (all from glass to wooden, to semi-precious and many specialty beads), drop what you prefer into your shopping cart, and with the touch of a button, they're on their way to you, fast and convenience, but there're two drawbacks to ordering beads online.

First is shipping charge. You can skip these altogether and get a better deal if you frequent your local brick and mortar shop. Certainly, many vendors of beads online provide free shipping if you order over a specific dollar amount. Always look for deals like this is purchasing beads online.

The second main disadvantage of buying beads online is the fact that bead craft is, at its essence, a palpable hobby. While shopping for beads, part of the pleasure is getting to reach out and touch them. To get a feel for them and see if you truly like them and if they'll work for you in your projects. The way the majority of brick and mortar shops are laid out, the beads are out in the open and on display, encouraging this hands on approach. You simply do not get that when ordering beads on the web.

My personal suggestion would be this:

If you have a brick and mortar bead shop in your local area, find out what they have available as a first course. Maybe even browse beads online to get an idea for things you want to look for at the brick and mortar shop.

If you do not have a shop in your locale specializing in bead craft and beading supplies, then check a few chain stores to see what's available (Michael's is an excellent source, and even Wal-Mart's craft section has some beading supplies). Once you have exhausted the options of the local shops, then definitely turn your concentration to finding a source to buy beads online.

One ending note, and a nod in favor of web based bead vendors are specialty beads. The brick and mortar shops are tremendous sources for standard supplies, but you may find that they do not carry certain specialty designs (just simply not enough local demand for it). So if you're looking for something rare or specialized, purchasing these beads online is almost certainly your best bet.

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