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If you are new to bead craft, or think you may be interested, among the first doubts that might spring to mind is where you can buy beads online. Fortunately, there are a number of reliable online vendors, but before you race to locate them, it might be worth taking a second to think about the benefits and disadvantages of ordering beads online.

The main advantage to being able to buy beads online is, certainly, comfort. From the comfort of your chair, you can browse a staggering array of alternatives (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, quick and convenience, but there are 2 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. Of course, a few vendors of beads online offer free shipping if you order greater than a specific dollar amount. Always check out 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 tactile hobby. While shopping for beads, part of the fun is getting to reach out and touch them. To obtain a feel for them and see if you truly like them and if they will 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 don't get that when ordering beads over the internet.

My personal recommendation would be this:

If you've a brick and mortar bead shop in your local area, find out what they've 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 don't have a shop in your region specializing in bead craft and beading supplies, then look for a few chain shops 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 attention to finding a source to buy beads online.

One ultimate note, and a nod in favor of online bead vendors are specialty beads. The brick and mortar stores are tremendous sources for normal 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, buying these beads online is almost certainly your best bet.

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