What is “TOHO BEADS,” Japan’s Leading Bead Manufacturer?
When it comes to Japan’s most famous bead manufacturers, TOHO BEADS undoubtedly stands out.
Glass beads, known as “garasu beads” in Japanese, are a staple in bead crafting. However, only three companies in Japan specialize in manufacturing glass beads, and TOHO BEADS is one of them.
Founded in 1951 in Hiroshima, TOHO BEADS has been dedicated to producing high-quality glass beads for over 70 years. Today, their collection has expanded to over 10,000 different types of glass beads.
Recognizable by its blue packaging featuring the TOHO logo, the brand is widely available in Japanese craft stores. Their beads are essential for beaded accessories, embroidery, and intricate beadwork, making them a favorite among artisans and hobbyists alike.
The Glass Bead Manufacturing Process
TOHO BEADS’ glass beads are produced in their Hiroshima factory, beginning with the careful blending of raw glass materials. Remarkably, the mixing of glass and color pigments is meticulously adjusted by skilled artisans, ensuring the highest quality and consistency.
Some beads go through as many as 30 different production steps to achieve their vibrant colors and stunning brilliance. It’s truly astonishing to think that such intricate craftsmanship is packed into a single tiny bead.
Now, let’s explore what makes TOHO BEADS stand out with its exceptional manufacturing techniques.
Features of TOHO Beads
1. Larger Holes
One of the key features of TOHO BEADS is their larger hole size compared to other beads. This allows for more passes of thread or fishing line, making them ideal for intricate beadwork. Additionally, the larger hole results in a lighter bead, reducing overall weight without compromising quality.
2. Consistent Shape and High Quality Within the Same SKU
TOHO BEADS are produced with exceptional precision, ensuring consistent size and shape with minimal variations. As a result, they are recognized worldwide as high-quality, Made-in-Japan beads, trusted by professionals and crafters alike.
Many beaders have experienced frustration when a bead’s hole is too small, preventing a needle from passing through, or when multiple thread passes are needed but won’t fit. TOHO BEADS were designed to solve these common issues, providing a seamless and enjoyable crafting experience.
Not only are TOHO BEADS visually stunning, but they are also designed with the user’s convenience in mind, making them a favorite choice for artisans worldwide.
TOHO BEADS Products
Now that we’ve explored the charm of TOHO BEADS, let’s take a look at their actual product lineup! From classic glass beads to uniquely shaped specialty beads, TOHO BEADS offers a wide range of products tailored to various crafting needs.
CR Three-cut Beads
The surface is randomly cut, allowing you to enjoy its natural shine.
4K Square Beads
The surface is cut into a square shape like a dice, so you can enjoy using it to your advantage by gluing the sides together. Both the 3mm and 4mm holes are large, so they are suitable for making sleeve garters and leather accessories by directly threading a string through them.
BB4 Bamboo Beads, Quartered Bamboo
It has a long, thin shape like bamboo, and is called gorintake or gobuntake depending on its length.
ONE G Thread For Bead Stitching One G
It is a 100% nylon thread that eliminates the fluffiness of the thread , which is a drawback of Nymo.
Conclusion
Each tiny TOHO BEAD is a masterpiece, embodying Japan’s exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality. These beads are not just decorative elements but carefully crafted products filled with precision, innovation, and passion.
With an extensive variety of bead types and colors, TOHO BEADS offers endless possibilities for creativity. Be sure to explore their diverse lineup and experience their unparalleled quality for yourself!
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