The short answer: Perler beads are a brand of fuse beads, also called melty beads. They are small, hollow, cylinder-shaped beads made of HDPE plastic. When you heat them through paper with an iron, they fuse into one solid piece.
The whole family goes by several names, which confuses first-time buyers. Here is how the names line up.
Fuse beads and their brands
- Fuse beads is the general term: plastic beads that fuse with heat.
- Perler is the best-known brand, and the name people use for all of them.
- Hama (Europe), Artkal, and Nelico make the same kind of beads.
- Melty beads, iron beads, peg beads: regional and store-brand names for the same product.
How they differ from other beads
- Pony beads are solid with a small hole for string, made of harder plastic. They do not melt together.
- Seed beads are tiny glass or acrylic beads for jewelry. No fusing.
- Perler beads are hollow cylinders, 5 mm wide, designed so the walls soften and bond under the iron.
If you are new to the craft, our what are perler beads guide covers the basics, and how many beads a pattern needs helps you plan supplies. Beads, boards, and ironing paper are in our shop.