About

For a city of its size Birmingham has a distinct lack of arts and crafts supplies shops, and unlike most other cities – it had no full time bead shop. Inspired by this, and spurred on by my family and friends I opened the Birmingham Bead Shop, in the hope that it would provide not only an interesting, independent place to browse and shop, but also an inspiring and inviting space to meet other like-minded people and spend some time discovering a new skill or indulging in a hobby you love.

some pretty red beads some pretty blue beads some pretty buttons

Opening Hours

  • Tuesday - Saturday: 10.30 - 5.30
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed

N.B. Please be aware that at the moment I run the shop all on my own and so there’s the tiniest of chances that very occasionally the opening times might vary if there’s a workshop on or I have to do something I cant get out of (the really fun stuff like seeing the bank manager or going to the dentist...). I’ll always put any changes to the normal hours on the website, so if you’re making a special trip to the shop please check back here or give us a call first just incase.

The shop stocks an ever-changing variety of beads, from metal and wooden ones to porcelain and fabric covered ones, as well as a selection of findings, stringing material and tools, and more unusual items such as lockets and laser cut wooden shapes.

The shop is located in The Custard Factory in Digbeth, built by Sir Alfred Bird (he of Bird’s custard powder) over 100 years ago. It’s the home of all things creative and independent in Birmingham, and is just 5 minutes from the Bullring just off Digbeth high street. Have a look at the directions page for instructions and map to help you find us, and the links pages for more information about the custard factory and the bead shop’s neighbours.