Beading and Needle Case – Product Review

Updated June 17, 2023.
I’ve never been good at beading. Not that this is a surprise to those who regularly read this blog. I think I’ve finally found the last piece of the puzzle to make beading easy with this combination of beading and needle case from Accoutrement Designs.

First, I overcame the sharp needle problem by using John James Tapestry-point beading needles. Then I overcame the tiny eyes and threading problem with the Puffin & Co Micro Needle Threader (reviewed here).

But a good way to corral my beads while I stitched has eluded me. I’ve tried many things, from DIY tools (a jar lid with double-sided tape inside it) to bought accessories (ETC beading buddy), but I have not been happy. Some of these have been effective, but some have been so bad I haven’t even told you about them.

Awhile ago I was beading on a large canvas that was mostly stitched. On doing so, I found that my Beading Buddy couldn’t get close enough to the areas I was stitching to let me grab beads with my needle. I didn’t want to snag the magnets on the stitching.

I decided to try my new beading & needle case. Accoutrement Designs makes these business-card-sized cases in many different styles, designs, and colors. Some have printed sayings, some are plain, and some have attachments or covers that match many of the magnets. They are slim, metallic, and snap securely shut.

As you can see from the picture, one side, the top, has a sheet magnet on it. This is for needle storage. The other side has a tacky surface that has little dots on it. This side is to hold beads while you are stitching.

The needle side is self-explanatory. I’ve put all my beading needles there, along with the micro threader. I like that because it means I will not have to open four boxes to find my beading needles. Nor will I have to use the wire threaders I break — everything is right there, in the case I’m going to pull out first.

The tacky surface has little dots, unlike the Beading Buddy, which has a smooth surface. The textured surface made it easier to nab beads. It’s firm instead squishy, which also helps. Using it with sequins, I had the same good results.

It was very easy to use. Although I wouldn’t use it for long-term storage of beads, it will store them as you work on a project.

I loved that I could move it around my canvas as I needed without snagging threads. I just held the edge in place with my thumb. If you wanted to use a magnet to secure it, here’s where the metal case is genius. Just put a strong magnet under your canvas and place the case on top. It will stay secure.

This product is fantastic. If you do any beading at all, go out and get one, you’ll find it at many needlework shops.