Beadalon wires are softer more supple and stronger than other bead st ringing wires. They combine the soft silky feel of thread with the st rength and abrasion resistance of stainless steel. Made of multiple st rands of incredibly strong yet fine stainless steel cable that is nylo n coated; the higher number of strands in the wire the more flexible and kink resistant. The unique nylon coating provides added kink resis tance and allows light to pass through and reflect off the encased sta inless steel wire for a spark of color that makes beaded designs come alive. For Austrian crystals seed beads and fresh water pearls use .0 12" and use .015" to .018" for medium to heavy glass metal ceramic a nd fiber-optic beads.