At first I wasn't sure I was going to like the Demi round beads. As I've tried them in different types of projects I have decided I really love them. There are a few specific uses in which, in my opinion, they are really an improvement over other bead options.
They really work well to cup a round bead in a design when making an angle. With a pearl or druk, when designing a curve, the demi round really aids in the look and function of the design. I used both the Demi 11 & 8 in this design called Arabella. Arabella works equally well with Paisley Duo and Zoliduo beads.
On a brick stitch edge for bead embroidery, I have found I like the Demi round size 8 bead. It works up as with any size 8 seed bead on the edge, faster than with an 11, yet the slim look of the thinner bead is much more attractive to me than the traditional size 8 on the edge.
For a pretty chain, called the Bicycle Chain, I prefer the Demi 8 to the "O" bead often used for this chain. The smaller size works up easier to get the stitching nice and keep tension tight. I use the Demi size 8 with a size 15 seed bead replacing the "O" bead and size 11 seed bead. It really is a sweet chain for this sparkling pendant.
In this spiral necklace design, I wanted a tiny splash of color without taking up much space. What a perfect place for a Demi size 11 bead. This piece, called Spiral Dreams, uses the Demi to add just a touch of color in a small space making the design more interesting. When a size 15 is too small, or in this case, to add contrast without taking up more space, the Demi bead solved a design issue in style.
And from Diane Dennis, I learned that they are great in a herringbone chain. Yet another perfect and interesting use for the Demi Round. For this chain, the size 8 demi round was used with a size 11 catch bead. It would work equally as well with a size 11 demi round and a size 15 catch bead for a more delicate look.
So, give them a try! You may find that you enjoy using them as well in may places to add a touch of color or for a new look to an old design.
