How do needle sizes correspond to seed bead sizes?
As with seed beads, the smaller the needle size, the larger the needle. For example, size 10 needles are larger than size 15 needles. When using size 11 seed beads or larger for bead embroidery and most off-loom beadweaving stitches, use a size 10 needle. You may also be able to use a size 10 needle with size 15 or smaller seed beads, especially with embroidery and beadweaving stitches that require only two passes of thread (such as peyote, herringbone and brick). If you are incorporating pearls, gemstones or other beads with small holes, or if you are using a beadweaving stitch that requires more than two passes of thread (such as square stitch, right angle weave and spiral rope), you may need to use a size 12 or smaller needle.
