Are clay beads plastic?

Clay beads have become increasingly popular for making jewelry over the last few years. But some people wonder - are clay beads actually plastic? The short answer is no, clay beads are not plastic. They are made from natural clay that has been shaped and then fired in a kiln to harden. Let's take a closer look at clay beads and what makes them different from plastic beads.


What are Clay Beads?


Clay beads, also known as heishi beads, are small barrel-shaped beads made from natural clay. The clay is rolled into a long tube, then cut into short segments which are rounded and smoothed by hand. The beads are then fired at high temperatures in a kiln, which hardens them. Firing brings out the natural colors in the clay, resulting in earthy hues of red, brown, orange, yellow, black, and white.
After firing, the beads may be glazed for extra color and shine. Glazes are made from natural ingredients like ground glass, minerals, and metal oxides. The glazed beads are fired again to melt the glaze onto the surface. Glazes allow for more vibrant colors like turquoise, blue, green, and purple.


Heishi beads date back thousands of years to the ancient Pueblo Peoples of the American Southwest. The word “heishi” even comes from the Tewa Pueblo word meaning “shell” or “necklace.” Tribes like the Navajo and Zuni are still creating heishi beads today using traditional techniques.


Clay vs. Plastic Beads


While clay and plastic beads may look similar, there are some key differences that set natural clay beads apart:
Clay beads are made from natural clay earth while plastic beads are synthetic petroleum-based materials.
Clay is porous while plastic is non-porous. This gives clay beads an earthier, more organic feel.
Plastic beads are uniform in size and color while clay beads vary slightly, adding handmade character.
Clay beads can be shaped into various barrel, disc, and square shapes. Plastic beads are usually rounder.
Natural clay beads do not have a plastic smell or static charge.
Clay is environmentally-friendly while plastic takes hundreds of years to break down.
So in summary, clay beads are distinctly natural materials while plastic beads are human-synthesized materials. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly jewelry making option with organic appeal, clay beads are the way to go over plastic!


Clay Bead Jewelry Ideas


Here are some popular ways to use clay beads in jewelry projects:
Clay Bead Necklaces
Chokers - Heishi beads are perfect small beads for choker necklaces. Just string them together for a boho chic look.
Collars - Create a tribal inspired collar necklace using multiple strands of clay beads.
Statement necklaces - Combine clay beads with natural stones, shells or wood beads for an eclectic statement piece.
Pendants - Use large hole clay beads as the base to attach a clay pendant focal bead.


Clay Bead Bracelets


Stretchy bracelets - String clay beads onto stretch cord for an easy slip-on bracelet. Good for kids and teens.
Wrap bracelets - Wrap multiple strands of small clay beads around the wrist for a trendy stacked look.
Charm bracelets - Glue clay beads and charms onto bracelet wire or cord.
Memory bead bracelets - Create a memory bracelet using letter beads or beads that signify memories.


Clay Bead Earrings


Studs - Small clay beads make cute stud earrings, especially when shaped like flowers or hearts.
Dangles - Make funky dangly earrings with hollow clay beads and bead caps.
Chandeliers - Use wire to connect multiple clay beads into chandelier shaped earrings.
Hoops - String clay beads onto hoop earrings for some earthy texture.


Other Clay Bead Jewelry


Rings - Wrap clay beads into rings or glue onto adjustable rings.
Anklets - Make a summery anklet using clay beads and bells.
Hair accessories - Create clay bead hair ties, headbands, and barrettes.
Purse charms - Make funky bag charms out of carved clay beads and leather cord.

are clay beads plastic
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when crafting with these natural clay beads! The earthy colors and shapes make them perfect for bohemian, tribal, and southwestern inspired jewelry designs.


How Many Beads for a Bracelet?


When making a beaded bracelet with clay beads, about 50-80 beads are needed for an average sized bracelet. Here are some general clay bead bracelet sizing guidelines:
Child bracelet - 30-40 beads Striped Clay Bead Bracelet
Teen/Petite Adult - 40-50 beads
Average Adult - 50-60 beads
Large Adult - 60-80 beads
The best way to find your ideal bracelet length is to measure your wrist then allow an additional half to whole inch so the bracelet can slide over your hand. Then cut a flexible beading wire that length and test out stringing beads until you reach the desired fit. Consider the thickness of the beads and spacing too when calculating the quantity needed. Always start with more beads than you think you’ll need to allow room for error. You can always remove extra beads, but having too few may result in having to start over.


Clay Bead Bracelet Design Inspiration


Clay beads are wonderfully versatile for making all styles of beaded bracelets including:
Monochromatic - Use shades of one color like light blue to navy.
Neutrals - Mix natural white, tan and black beads.
Bright & Colorful - Combine bold colors like orange, turquoise and purple.
Eclectic - Mix patterned & shaped beads for boho style.
Textured - Integrate glass beads and natural beads.
Minimalist - Space small white beads thinly for modern look.
Geometric - Use square and disc shaped beads.
Southwest - Add silver spacers and accents.
Whether you prefer a simple single strand or chunky multi-layered look, clay beads can help you create a unique handmade bracelet you’ll love wearing. Let your creativity shine!


In summary, clay beads offer a natural and eco-friendly alternative to plastic beads for jewelry making. Their beautiful colors, textures and shapes allow for diverse designs. With proper planning for length, clay beads can be strung into stunning bracelets, necklaces and more that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Back to blog