Do you want to win a copy of “Hip to Bead” beadwork book by Katie Hacker? Its easy!!! just leave a comment below about why you thinks its Hip to Bead! One lucky reader will be chosen by random on August 1st!
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Hama BioBeads Review: The Eco-Friendly Fuse Beads You’ll Love
As a long-time crafter, I’ve worked with all kinds of materials, but there’s something about fuse beads that never gets old. The creativity, the colors, the nostalgia—it’s all part of the fun! But let’s be honest, traditional plastic beads aren’t exactly great for the environment. That’s why I was so excited to try Hama BioBeads, an eco-friendly alternative that promises all the fun of classic Hama beads without the plastic guilt. So, do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in!
What Are Hama BioBeads?
Hama BioBeads are a biodegradable version of the classic Hama fuse beads. Instead of being made from petroleum-based plastic, these beads are crafted from a plant-based, eco-friendly material that naturally decomposes over time. That means less plastic waste while still enjoying the same vibrant colors and creativity that fuse bead lovers expect.
First Impressions: Do They Feel Different?
When I first opened the pack, I was curious—would they feel different from traditional beads? The answer: not really! The beads are slightly smoother to the touch, but they’re just as easy to handle, pick up with tweezers, and place on a pegboard. The colors are just as bright and bold, which was a big relief since I was worried they might look dull or faded.
One of the things I love about these beads is that they’re the same size as regular Hama beads, so they work with all my existing pegboards and accessories. No need to buy new tools or change my crafting process!
How Do They Fuse?
Now, onto the real test—how well do they iron together?
I followed my usual fusing process, using parchment paper and a medium heat setting on my iron. The beads melted together perfectly, just like regular Hama beads. No weird smells, no uneven melting—just smooth, well-bonded designs.
I also noticed that once cooled, the fused beads felt a bit sturdier than traditional plastic beads. That’s a huge plus because sometimes regular beads can feel brittle or break apart too easily.
What Makes Hama BioBeads Special?
? Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – The biggest selling point! These beads naturally break down over time, reducing environmental impact.
? Non-Toxic & Safe for Kids – Made from natural materials, they’re a safer option for little crafters.
? Same Great Quality – They look, feel, and fuse just like classic Hama beads—no sacrifice in quality!
? Works with Existing Hama Accessories – You don’t need special pegboards or tools; they fit right into your current stash.
? Great for Schools & Eco-Conscious Crafters – If you’re an educator or a parent looking to introduce sustainability to kids in a fun way, these are perfect!
The only potential downside is that since these are a newer product, they may not be as widely available as traditional Hama beads. Some colors also seem to be in and out of stock, so if you see a set you love, I’d suggest grabbing them while you can.
If you love fuse bead crafting but want a more sustainable option, Hama BioBeads are a fantastic choice. They’re just as fun, colorful, and easy to use as regular Hama beads, but they come with the added bonus of being better for the planet. Whether you’re a hobby crafter, a parent, or a teacher, these beads are a guilt-free way to get creative.
So if you’re looking to make your crafts a little greener, give Hama BioBeads a try! Check them out here!
beading is the ultimate accessory for you clothes or crafts! the texture, the shine, the bling!
I love it!!
It’s hip to bead because only those with creative minds can actually put together a really gorgeous piece! And I haven’t been blessed with that gift!
Being able to make a piece that is “yours” and is as tricked out and as customized as you want it…that’s hip 🙂
Its hip to bead because beads add gorgeous sparkle to any project, contemporary or vintage.
I think it’s Hip to Bead because you can wear your own art work, you can share your creations with friends and family, and you can make a few bucks in this tight economy by selling your pieces.
Thanks for offering such a great give-away.
Hi:
I’ve added beads to my lay out, but lately been wanting to learn to create those hips jewelry I see on beads trends.
It’s hip to be able to create jewelry with my teen and be creative with them and be hip:)
Maggie
Oh of course it is hip to bead.
For one thing this is a stressful world, what better way to stress less. Apart from therapeutic advantages, we end up with beautiful end results in exquisite designed pieces personalized. Beads have intrinsic unique beauty. Beads move the creative soul. When we put our creativity talent into putting beads together to produce surprising beautiful results, ah our day is made.
hey you! i just now found this blog! kewl!
What can I say…it IS hip to bead….my sons girlfriends marvel everytime they come in the house and im camped out with my old lady glasses on making something….they think im terminally hip!
Why is it hip to bead? Because it is art on a small scale … a scale that can go to the beach, a summer lake house, a long plane ride … anywhere!
It is hip to bead because it connects us old fogeys with the younger crowd — gives us something to share
It’s hip to bead because you’re creating something that’s part of yourself. When you buy something made by a fellow beader, you’re supporting the arts and crafts community instead of lining the coffers of huge corporations like Walmart, and getting much better quality, too!
Beading allows you to express yourslf in so many ways, and you can change your look in seconds! ANy art is cool, but beading is expecially cool!
I’d love the book! Thanks for the chance.
Char
I think it’s hip to bead for several reasons. The number one reason is because I and addicted to beads, I love doing it and it helps me to relax. It’a a very good feeling when you complete a piece of jewelry and can’t believe that YOU did that.Next I love all the comments from family, friends and customers or even from someone that just looks at my items and comments.
Beading to me is one of those few things that has so many aspects of connecting….literally and figuratively. It has brought the world closer,linking us. Beaders,beadmakers,vendors,clients etc.
It keeps us in the now, but yet show’s us little glimpses of our distant past. That’s hip….
It’s hip to bead because your creative thoughts become something of beauty. Use this creative therapy to make one of kind pieces to give as gifts.
I just discovered beading and am already obsessed with the hip and creative wearable possibilities. Since I typically look like I fell into the Gap and am stuck there, my new cadre of beaded pieces help me feel cooler and less conformist, which is great for my “young professor” mojo.
It’s hip to bead because it’s another way to express my creativity. With just a few beads and string I can create a treasured gift for a friend or an addition to my own jewelry box.
It’s hip to bead because not only is it fun, relaxing, and a great outlet for creativity – you can wear whatever you make.
Its Hip to Bead because showing your own personal style thru your own jewelry and accesorries is so gratifying and unique!Such a sense of accomplishment!
Are you kidding? It’s so hip to have matching jewelry for every outfit! And whenever I need a gift for someone I just search through my bead staff and create something special and unique just for them. I love it!
It’s “Hip to Bead” ’cause you can make something that fits your style & communicates your message. You can do grunge, hippie, feminist, vegetarian, environmentalist, classic, ethnic, seasonal, holiday, you name the theme/topic and you can make it happen! What’s more cool than that!
Teri Baskett