What are English beading needles?:
English beading needles are designed to be used for off-loom beadweaving and loomed beadwork. They are sold under brands like John James and Pony. The eyes of these needles are long and slender and allow for several passes through your beads.
What are English beading needles made of?:
English beading needles are made of stainless steel that may or may not have been annealed. If the stainless steel has been annealed, which results in a stiffer needle, it may be more likely to snap off or break when working in tight spots.
What sizes do they come in?:
English beading needles range in length from approximately 1" (which are sometimes called a short or "sharp" needle) to 3 1/2". Their thickness ranges from size 10 (thickest and suitable for use with larger beads or beads with large holes) to a size 15 (thinnest and suitable for use with smaller seed beads or beads with small holes).
What are they used for?:
English beading needles are used for both off-loom beadweaving, loomed beadwork and bead embroidery.
Where can I buy them and how much do they cost?:
Almost all bead supply companies and local bead shops carry some type and variety of English beading needle. Prices are around $4.00 for a package of 25 size 12 beading needles.