As I recall, many beaders enjoy using the Toho Aiko cylinder beads. I have never heard (yet) anything negative about them -- other than perhaps the price!  LOL
I am interested in where you purchase your Aikos and in any other comments you may have about using them. When working with an expensive piece, using real gemstones, I feel the added expense might be well worth it. How do others feel about this?

Carol

Hi Carol
I am a big fan of Aiko beads, in my humble opinion they leave Delicas way way behind.  They are very even and frankly, although I would prefer it if they were cheaper they are well worth the extra expense. I buy mine from www.bobbybead.com. An anbsolutely fabulous company, with whom I have been dealing with for several years.

Lynda

Thanks Lynda - I have dealt with Bobbie Bead previously for other products and have found them very reliable.
I am also happy to hear what you have to say about Aikos -- some people feel as you do, while others feel it is not worth the extra dollars -- although EVERYONE has said they are much more even in size and shape.
I feel that if I am going to invest a lot of time in an original design, and use real gemstones to embellish, I might as well blow the bundle on a few pieces and create a consistently expensive piece.
I was simply blown away by their depth in color in a finished product I saw - they seemed dimensional and alive.

Carol

Carol, I don't think I have ever actually used Aikos.  I've read a lot about them, and I think Don Pierce, the Larry the Loom guy, uses them exclusively.  I have used the Toho Treasures before, and I do like those very much, even if they are a bit more expensive than the Delicas.

So now I think I'm going to have to order some Aikos and give them a shot.  I'll bet I could even do a nice write up on the site here for others who have never used them, either...

-Jen

That's a great idea, Jen. I don't know the 'legalities' of posting someone else's photos here - so I won't do it - but if you want to see what got me so excited go to Maggie Meister's website and have a look at Tekla's Cuff. There are two versions - one with pearls and one with a fuschia ruby scarab - that one has a red-gold Aiko that has me on the edge. I have never been a fan of red anything -- but I must have those beads! I am writing MM to ask her what color they are.
I'm not sure about Toho Treasures -- I like them but I'm not prepared to say if they are the same or better than Delicas -- I just haven't used them as often. Obviously, I need to branch out!
Stay tuned!

Carol