The three most commonly used bead stringing needles — English beading needles, big eye needles and twisted wire needles — will probably work for most beading projects, so choosing a needle is in some ways more a matter of personal preference than matching functionality.

They each are capable of pulling a variety of threading materials through most beads. You might like the flexibility of the twisted wire needles. You may need the durability of the English beading needles. Or, you may prefer the exceptionally easy threading offered by big eye needles. If you don't already have a personal favorite, needles are inexpensive enough that you can afford to experiment with the different types to see what works best for you.