Glass or Plastic Beads?

Beads are made from various materials, from plastic or acrylic to glass, crystal and gemstones. 

Which is better?  it depends on what you are using the beads for. 

Plastic or glass is normally used for seed beads or simulate pearl beads.  

The main difference between them is the feel of glass versus plastic beads.  Glass beads are heavier, cooler to the touch but tend to be more durable.  The provide more sparkle than plastic beads. 

Plastic beads are better if you don't want a lot of weight, but want vibrant colour.  Plastic beads may scratch over time, but are generally very durable.  They make less sound than glass beads.

Glass Beads:

Weight: Heavier than plastic beads of the same size.

Temperature: Cool to the touch.

Sound: Produce a ringing or clinking sound when tapped.

Durability: More resistant to scratches and breakage.

Appearance: Often have a smooth, shiny finish with sharp edges.

Uses: Widely used in jewellery making, craft projects, and even in some industrial applications. 

Glass beads are generally more expensive than plastic beads.

• Plastic Beads:
  Weight: Lighter than glass beads of the same size.
• Temperature: Warmer to the touch.
• Sound: Produce a duller, less resonant sound when tapped.
• Durability: More susceptible to scratches, melting, and breakage.
• Appearance: May have a duller finish and rounded edges.
• Uses: Used in a variety of craft projects, children's toys, and even in some personal care products (though their use in this context is increasingly restricted due to environmental concerns). 

How to tell the difference? 

Touch the bead to your cheek, glass will feel cool, plastic will feel closer to room temperature. 

A plastic bead will melt or deform under a flame, while a glass bead will not. 

Which beads you use will depend on the project and your personal preference.  We have a range of both.