Choose between mini, midi, and maxi bead sizes

Midi beads are a forgiving default for most household builds because they are easy to place, widely stocked, and large enough to see without magnification. Mini beads can preserve small eyes, lettering, and diagonals, but they demand more sorting and steadier handling. Maxi beads are useful when visibility and quick placement matter more than fine detail.

Do not choose a smaller bead just because it sounds more precise. Precision only helps when the finished object is large enough for the viewer to see the additional cells and you are willing to manage the extra build time.

Every bead diameter changes the physical footprint of the same grid. Use the creator's dimensions to check whether one pegboard still fits, then choose a grid that gives the subject enough cells across its important features. A face that is four cells wide has a different visual promise at 2.6 mm than at 5 mm.

For the fox keychain, midi beads keep the 32-cell pattern compact and the eyes legible. The mini version only becomes worthwhile after increasing the pattern to 64 cells and moving it to a framed display.

Match the bead, pegboard, ironing paper, and heat guidance from the same system whenever possible. Keep small beads away from young children and pets, and treat the physical manufacturer's instructions as the authority for heat and ventilation.

Record the chosen size in the project title or export note. A build chart without bead scale can be technically correct and still lead to an expensive surprise at the table.