The short answer: standard perler beads measure 5 mm in diameter and 5 mm tall. That size is called midi. Mini beads are 2.6 mm for tiny detail work, and maxi beads are 10 mm for children’s first projects. Each size needs its own pegboard.
Most projects, patterns, and tutorials use the standard 5 mm midi bead, so if you are buying your first bag, get midi. Here is the full size breakdown so you never pick the wrong bead again.
The three sizes
- Midi (5 mm): the standard. Fits the classic 29 by 29 pegboard and every pattern in our pattern library.
- Mini (2.6 mm): about half the size of midi. Used for fine details, charms, and small earrings. Needs mini pegboards and tweezers.
- Maxi (10 mm): twice the size of midi. Easy for small children to handle, but pegboards and patterns are bigger.
Does size matter for patterns?
Yes. A pattern designed for 5 mm beads changes physical size if you use mini or maxi: the same 20 by 20 grid is about 10 cm wide in midi, 5 cm in mini, and 20 cm in maxi. The bead count stays the same, so you can reuse a pattern, but plan the finished size first. For small detail work, our beginner patterns are all midi-friendly. Boards that fit together for larger works are covered in our pegboard size guide.