If you’re like me, you believe that you can never have too many beads. As a professional bead artist, my collection has steadily grown over the last ten years to the point where I had to set aside a room in my home just for my beads. While you may not have vast quantities of beads, there are a few things you can do to keep your stash organized. There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find just the right bead to finish the project! Just remember that what works for someone else may not be right for you. The bottom line to getting and staying organized is to do what works for you!
1. Plastic Tubes
Tubes are great for storing seed beads. In fact, most bead stores sell their smaller seed beads and cylinder beads in plastic tubes. Plastic tubes are also great for storing smaller gemstone and glass beads as well. They are easy to store and easy to pack when taking your beads on the road. But a word of caution: make sure that the tops remain firmly closed while traveling or storing. For loose-fitting caps, a small piece of clear tape can ensure that you won’t have little seed beads all over your favorite tote or in the bottom of the drawer.2. Plastic Bags
Whole hanks, larger gemstone and glass beads and long strand of beads can be stored securely in plastic bags of all sizes. Plastic bags also work well for transporting these beads. Personally, I prefer not to put loose seed beads in plastic bags, as it tends to be difficult to get them in and out without spilling lots of beads everywhere.3. Other Storage Containers
Plastic storage containers come in all shapes and sizes and are widely available from many bead suppliers, both online and at shops. Some of my favorite storage solutions are caddies that have removable parts - you can fill the smaller divided plastic containers with several types of beads, then snap them onto a frame with a handle for easy transport. Watchmakers’ containers are also great for storing small amounts of seed beads, crystals and other tiny beads. As with the plastic tubes, make sure that you put a small piece of tape over the lid to secure it when traveling with these containers.
