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Beginner Guide

How to Choose Your First Bead Brand

10 min read · PixelBeadie Team

With 15 brands and 2080+ colors available, beginners often don't know where to start. This guide helps you choose the right brand based on budget, project type, and location.

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15 bead brands compared

⚡ Quick Recommendations

🇺🇸 North AmericaPerler (5mm)Widely available, 102 colors
🇪🇺 EuropeHama Midi (5mm)Most popular in Europe, consistent
🇨🇳 ChinaMARD (2.6mm)291 colors (most), great value
🎯 Detail-orientedArtkal C (2.6mm)174 colors, mini size
🌈 Maximum colorsDiamond Dotz460 colors
👶 Kids (3+)Hama Maxi (10mm)Large, safe, easy to grip

🔍 5mm Standard Size Comparison

🇺🇸 Perler

102 colors

Most accessible in NA, vibrant

🇩🇰 Hama Midi

91 colors

Most consistent quality, even fusing

🇨🇳 Artkal S

198 colors

Most colors, includes special effects

🔬 2.6mm Mini Size Comparison

MARD

291 colors

Richest palette, affordable

Artkal A

144 colors

Good color consistency

Artkal C

174 colors

Includes special editions

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Don't mix different brands! Different brands may have different sizes and melting points, causing uneven fusing.

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