1/2" x 7/8" Oval Bead

1/2" x 7/8" Maple Oval Wood Bead — Small Hardwood Craft Bead

This oval bead, measuring 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in diameter and 7/8 inch (22.23 mm) in length, is crafted from unfinished maple hardwood. The 3/16 inch (4.76 mm) hole runs through the center, making it suitable for threading onto fine cord, wire, or string. Its compact size and refined oval shape are especially useful in projects requiring detailed placement and a polished, natural finish.

Key Features

• Genuine maple hardwood offers lasting strength and a clean, pale wood appearance
• Smooth, unfinished surface is ready for paint, stain, or embellishment
• Consistent oval shape supports uniformity in multi-bead designs
• 3/16" (4.76 mm) hole is ideal for standard jewelry cords, wire, or lacing
• Lightweight—comfortable to wear or use in educational kits and decorative strands
• Available in bulk packs for classroom, group crafts, or retail needs

Specifications

• Length: 7/8" (0.875") / 22.23 mm
• Diameter: 1/2" (0.5") / 12.7 mm
• Hole Size: 3/16" (0.1875") / 4.76 mm
• Shape: Oval
• Material: Maple
• Weight (per bead): approx. 0.0025 oz (0.07 g)
• Finish: Unfinished, smooth sanded
• Dimensional Tolerance: ±0.01"
• Moisture Content: typically 7–13%
• Available Pack Sizes: 20, 100, 5000

Suggested Uses

These petite oval maple beads bring brightness to beaded bracelets, dangling earrings, and layered necklaces, offering a subtle alternative to round shapes. Teachers use them in sorting and counting activities or stringing exercises to build fine motor dexterity. Macrame artists add them to wall hangings for organic dimension, while crafters create detailed garlands or embellish keychains. Their lightweight nature also makes them perfect as movable markers for abaci or educational math tools. One unique idea: alternate oval and round beads in custom zipper pulls or bag charms, where the contrast in shape adds eye-catching texture and tactile variety for kids and adults alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are these oval beads made from a single piece of wood?
  Yes, each bead is carved from solid maple hardwood for consistent durability.
• Is the 3/16" hole smooth enough for threading?
  The hole is carefully drilled to minimize splinters, supporting easy, hassle-free stringing.
• Will they support wirework, or just cord and string?
  The hole fits thin wire for jewelry and craftwork, in addition to cord and thread.
• Is the finish suitable for painting or dyeing?
  Absolutely—the unfinished maple readily accepts paint, colored stain, or marker for custom designs.
• How much does each bead weigh?
  Each bead is extremely lightweight at approximately 0.0025 ounces (0.07 grams).
• Will hole size be consistent across a bulk order?
  Yes, tolerances are held to ±0.01" for reliability in bulk projects.
• Is this bead style compatible with Montessori math or activity kits?
  Yes, the oval design and smooth finish make them great for hands-on educational play and learning tools.
• Can I order larger quantities for events or kits?
  Bulk packs of 100 or 5000 are available to suit large-scale or group crafting needs.
• Are both ends sanded—is there a flat spot?
  Both ends are fully sanded and rounded for a uniform oval profile without flat spots.
• How should I clean the beads before use in crafts?
  Wipe gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth before painting or assembling into projects.

For crafting projects that require small, consistent, and smoothly finished beads, this maple oval style delivers both function and visual interest. Choose these for your next kit or jewelry-making session and achieve reliable, precise results with every piece.