Bead calculator
Enter the pattern width (beads per row) and length (number of rows); you can also add how many pieces you plan to make and a spare allowance.
The basic formula
For a rectangular pattern, the total bead count is the width times the length:
Total beads = width (beads) × length (rows)
A bracelet 6 beads wide and 72 rows long, for example, uses 6 × 72 = 432 beads. Figure patterns have rows of different lengths, so their beads have to be counted one by one; BeadDot does this automatically in the materials list.
How many grams?
One gram of Miyuki Delica 11/0 holds about 200 beads (it varies a little with color and finish). So:
Grams ≈ number of beads ÷ 200
The 432-bead bracelet needs about 2.2 g of Delicas. The 6 × 72 and 8 × 75 bracelets in the gallery use between 430 and 600 beads, roughly 2–3 g.
Counting per color
You order color by color, so the amount of each color matters more than the total. Count the beads of each color in the chart and apply the same formula. An example for a four-color, 432-bead bracelet:
| Color | Beads | Grams | With 10% spare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Background | 216 | 1.1 g | 238 beads |
| Main motif | 120 | 0.6 g | 132 beads |
| Second color | 72 | 0.4 g | 80 beads |
| Accent | 24 | 0.1 g | 27 beads |
Every pattern in BeadDot and every free pattern page comes with this table: the Miyuki code, count and grams of each color.
Add a spare allowance
Some beads are chipped, misshapen or have a narrow hole, and some end up on the floor. Adding 10–15% to your count is a good habit. For colors you use only a little, you will buy at least one pack anyway, which usually covers the spare.
Choosing the bracelet length
- Measure your wrist with a tape measure where you will wear the bracelet. Most adult wrists are 14–18 cm (5.5–7 in).
- Add 1–2 cm (about ½–¾ in) for a comfortable fit; 1 cm is enough if you like it snug.
- Subtract the length of your clasp or button. What is left is the length of the beadwork.
- After stitching a few rows, measure how many rows make 1 cm and work out the number of rows you need.
Rings and figures
The brick stitch figure and ring patterns in the gallery mostly use between 50 and 250 beads. One pack of each color is usually enough for several pieces; take the color list from the materials table on the pattern page.