Count beads in a tray from a photo

Bead counter for kit packing, supply checks and color audits

A bead counter saves the slowest part of craft work: counting small beads into kits, checking a bulk supply against the order, planning materials for a workshop or classroom, and auditing stock by color and size. Seed beads are the hardest case because each one is tiny; larger glass, wood and acrylic beads count much more easily from one tray photo.

Spread the beads on a bead mat or a piece of felt, which stops them rolling, in one layer with small gaps. For seed beads, get the phone close enough that each bead is clearly drawn and photograph a portion rather than the whole pile; on the free plan the photo is counted at web size, so a close shot or a tight crop with the image cropper makes a real difference. Choose a mat that contrasts with the beads: dark for clear, white and pastel beads, light for black and metallic ones.

A mixed lot takes up to three colors or sizes as Similar items examples, with the Found per example rows showing each share. For seed beads in Distinct objects mode, keep Ignore small detections at Off and move Detection sensitivity toward Smaller items. Strung beads touch along the thread, so lay the strand straight and check its markers closely. Sewing buttons and marbles use the same tray approach.

Bead tray checks

• Felt or a bead mat so beads stay in place
• One layer with small gaps, seed beads shot in portions
• A mat color that contrasts with the beads
• Each color in its own example box, three at most per count