If you're new to bead craft, or think you might be interested, one of the first questions that might spring to mind is where you can buy beads online. Fortunately, there are a lots of reliable web vendors, but before you race to find them, it might be worth taking a moment to consider the advantages and disadvantages of ordering beads on the internet.

The main benefit to being able to buy beads online is, certainly, comfort. From the comfort of your chair, you can browse a staggering array of selections (everything from glass to wooden, to semi-precious and several specialty beads), drop what you want into your shopping cart, and with the touch of a button, they're on their way to you, fast and convenience, but there're two disadvantages to ordering beads online.

First is shipping cost. You can avoid these altogether and get a better deal if you frequent your local brick and mortar shop. Certainly, a few vendors of beads online provide free shipping if you order over a certain dollar amount. Always look for deals like this is buying beads online.

The second main disadvantage of buying beads online is the fact that bead craft is, at its essence, a palpable hobby. While 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 really like them and if they'll work for you in your projects. The way most brick and mortar shops are laid out, the beads are out in the open and on display, encouraging this hands on approach. You simply do not get that when ordering beads over the internet.

My personal suggestion would be this:

If you have a brick and mortar bead shop in your local area, checkout what they have available as a first course. Perhaps even browse beads online to get an idea for things you want to look for at the brick and mortar shop.

If you do not have a shop in your region specializing in bead craft and beading supplies, then check some chain stores to see what's available (Michael's is a good 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 concentration to finding a source to buy beads online.

One ultimate note, and a nod in favor of web based bead vendors are specialty beads. The brick and mortar shops are excellent sources for standard supplies, but you may find that they don't carry certain specialty designs (just simply not enough local demand for it). So if you're looking for something rare or specialized, purchasing these beads online is almost certainly your best bet.

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