If you are 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're a lots of reputable online vendors, but before you race to discover them, it might be worth taking a moment to consider the advantages and disadvantages of ordering beads on the internet.

The key benefit 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 (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 are on their way to you, fast and painless, but there are 2 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 store. Certainly, some vendors of beads online offer free shipping if you order more than a certain dollar amount. Always look for deals like this is buying beads online.

The second main disadvantage of purchasing beads online is the fact that bead craft is, at its essence, a palpable hobby. When 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 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 just do not get that when ordering beads online.

My personal recommendation would be this:

If you've 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 store.

If you do not have a store in your region specializing in bead craft and beading supplies, then look for 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 certainly turn your concentration to finding a source to buy beads online.

One final note, and a nod in favor of online bead vendors are specialty beads. The brick and mortar stores are outstanding 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 are looking for something rare or specialized, purchasing these beads online is almost certainly your best bet.

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