Which yarn to use for Miyuki weaving?

Bead weaving is back in fashion thanks to Miyuki beads. This Japanese manufacturer creates small, very regular beads that make weaving much more aesthetic than before. No more warped bracelets! Today's weaves have a much more professional appearance.

Miyuki's beads include round rocailles and straightDelicas. These are small tubes that fit perfectly into a weave. Whatever your preference, round or tubular beads, the threads to use are the same.

To choose your Miyuki bead weaving wire, you first need to determine the type of technique you're going to use: single threading, loom or needle weaving (e.g. Peyote or Brick Stitch technique). Next, you need to know the bead hole size. This information is given on the page of the bead in question. Depending on your answer, the threads we recommend will not necessarily be the same.

I want to string beads: Bracelet or simple necklace without weaving

In this case, you'll need a strong, thick wire that will give your jewel a nice fall. Many types of thread can be used: transparent nylon thread known as "fishing line", braided nylon thread and many others.

Choose a minimum wire size of 0.30 mm for classic pearl sizes 11/0 or 15/0. For necklaces and bracelets, Turtle brand thread has a very nice hold. For 10/0 or 8/0 beads, you can use thicker wire.

Tutorial: Miyuki Picasso imitation turquoise pearl necklace with faceted gold tube beads

I want to weave on a loom

Many different finishes are available for this type of weaving. We invite you to have a look at our bead weaving tutorials to get an idea. Our recommendation is for a classic bead weave with slip ends or a magnetic clasp as a finish, not a slip knot.

You can use two different types of thread, but it's sometimes easier when you're just starting out to choose a single type of thread for both the loom threads and the thread on the needle. In any case, for bracelets, you need a good-quality thread for the needle thread, as this is the one that will pass several times through the beads. You need a thread that doesn't fray or frays very little, and above all, you need a fine thread. For necklaces, use good-quality thread for both loom and needle, as the weight of the beads will be greater.

• For the loom: C-LON D thread may suffice. It's a low-cost thread. However, it frays quickly when weaving. That's why we don't recommend it for any other use. If possible, use Miyuki Beading Thread or Ko. Similarly, silamide and Nymo Dthread fray quickly.
• In fact, there is a wide variety of threads compatible with the loom. You can choose from Linhasita, C-Lon Micro Cord and many others. However, if you use these or other thick yarns, you'll probably have to use a different type of finish. You may not be able to use weaving tips with them. Feel free to consult our tutorials.
• For the needle: Miyuki Beading thread B or KO, which are in fact the same thread. You can also use One-G thread or Fireline 0.10 or 0.12 mm thread.
• For collars: Don't compromise on quality and choose 0.10 mm or 0.12 mm Fireline wire, which is very strong, though less flexible. Only available in black and white.

In the tutorial below, we're using shiny thread for decorative edging. The loom thread is turquoise C-Lon D and the needle thread is white Miyuki.

Tutorial: Miyuki weaving bracelet and shiny Amethyst stone wires

I want to make Peyote or Brick Stitch

These two weaving techniques allow you to weave beads without a loom. All you need is thread and a needle.

As you'll be passing the needle through the beads several times, you absolutely must use good-quality thread. Otherwise, it will fray very quickly, knot and break. Miyuki, Ko or One-G threads are ideal for beginners.

SONO, SONOKO and HANA yarns are similar, but thinner. Some people use fireline for this type of weaving too, but it's less supple and less pleasant to use. On the other hand, it doesn't fray at all. This remains a personal choice. Don't use sewing thread, as it can easily get tangled and broken by the needle.

You'll also need beading needles. The easiest way is to buy a pack of 6 Miyuki needles.

Tutorial: Miyuki Terracotta and Rose Gold woven bracelet with weaving tips