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

The main advantage to being able to buy beads online is, of course, comfort. From the comfort of your chair, you can browse a staggering array of choices (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 key, they're on their way to you, quick and painless, but there're two drawbacks to ordering beads online.

First is shipping charge. You can skip these totally and get a better deal if you frequent your regional brick and mortar shop. Obviously, some vendors of beads online provide free shipping if you order more than a specific dollar amount. Always look for deals like this is purchasing beads online.

The second major drawback of buying beads online is the fact that bead craft is, at its essence, a tactile hobby. When 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 open display, encouraging this hands on approach. You simply don't get that when ordering beads online.

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 seek at the brick and mortar shop.

If you don't have a store in your region 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've exhausted the options of the local shops, then definitely turn your attention to finding a source to buy beads online.

One final note, and a nod in favor of web based bead vendors are specialty beads. The brick and mortar shops are exceptional sources for standard supplies, but you may find that they do not carry certain specialty designs (just simply not sufficient 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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