What Size Loc Beads Do I Need? A Sizing Guide

Ordering loc beads online and hoping they fit is stressful. Too small and they will not go on. Too big and they slide right off. The good news is that finding the right bead size is simple once you know how to measure your locs and match them to the right bead hole diameter.

This guide gives you everything you need to buy loc beads with confidence, even if you have never measured your locs before.

Why Bead Size Matters More Than You Think

Getting the right bead size is the difference between beads that sit beautifully and beads that frustrate you. Here is what happens with wrong sizing:

Too small:

• You cannot get the bead on without forcing it

• Forcing a bead can pull, stretch, or even break your loc

• The bead gets stuck halfway and is hard to remove

Too big:

• The bead slides down to the tip and falls off

• You need rubber bands or clips for every single bead

• The loose movement causes the bead to snag on things

Just right:

• The bead slides on smoothly with gentle pressure

• It stays in place on its own or with minimal securing

• Easy to reposition and remove whenever you want

How to Measure Your Locs at Home

You do not need special tools. Here are three easy methods:

Method 1: The String Method (Most Accurate)

1. Cut a piece of string, ribbon, or strip of paper about 15cm long

2. Wrap it around the thickest part of one of your locs (usually the middle section, not the tip)

3. Mark where the string overlaps

4. Lay the string flat against a ruler and measure the distance in millimetres

5. This measurement is your loc's circumference

To find the diameter (which is what you match to bead hole sizes), divide the circumference by 3.14.

Example: If your string measures 25mm around, your loc diameter is approximately 8mm. You would look for beads with a 9-10mm hole.

Method 2: The Ruler Method (Quick Estimate)

1. Hold a ruler or tape measure next to one of your locs

2. Measure the width of the loc from one side to the other

3. This gives you an approximate diameter

This method is less precise because locs are not perfectly round, but it gives a good enough estimate for most bead purchases.

Method 3: The Coin Comparison Method (No Tools Needed)

Compare your loc to common Nigerian coins:

Reference ObjectApproximate DiameterToothpick2mmPencil tip3-4mmStandard pencil7mmN50 coin thickness2mmN100 coin (width)23mmBiro pen7-8mmIndex finger15-18mm

Hold your loc next to these objects. If your loc is about the width of a pencil, your locs are roughly 7mm in diameter.

Important: Measure Multiple Locs

Your locs are probably not all the same thickness. Measure at least 3-4 locs from different parts of your head:

• One from the front/hairline

• One from the crown

• One from the sides

• One from the nape

Use the thickest measurement as your reference when choosing beads. A bead that fits your thickest loc will also work on your thinner ones (it may just be slightly looser on those).

The Loc Bead Sizing Chart

Here is the sizing chart that makes ordering simple. Find your loc diameter in the left column and look across to the recommended bead hole size:

Loc TypeLoc DiameterRecommended Bead HoleNotesMicrolocs / Sisterlocks1-3mm4-5mmVery small beads, look for "micro loc" beads specificallyThin locs3-5mm5-7mmMany standard "small" beads fit this rangeSmall-medium locs5-7mm7-9mmThe most common loc size in NigeriaMedium locs7-10mm9-12mmWide selection of beads available in this rangeThick locs10-14mm12-16mmLook for "large hole" or "thick loc" beadsExtra thick locs14mm+16mm+May need speciality sizing or adjustable cuffs instead

The golden rule: Your bead hole should be 2-3mm larger than your loc diameter. This gives enough room to slide the bead on without it being so loose that it falls off.

Understanding Bead Measurements

When you shop for loc beads, you will see two measurements listed:

Bead Size (Outer Diameter)

This is how big the bead looks from the outside. A 12mm bead is about the size of a small marble. This measurement affects the visual impact of the bead but not whether it fits your loc.

Bead Hole Size (Inner Diameter)

This is the measurement that determines fit. The hole is the opening your loc passes through. This is the number that matters most when you are shopping.

A bead can be 15mm on the outside but only have a 6mm hole, making it unsuitable for medium or thick locs. Always check the hole size, not just the outer bead size.

Common Bead Listings and What They Mean

Listing DescriptionTypical Hole SizeBest For"Micro loc beads"3-5mmSisterlocks, microlocs"Small loc beads"5-8mmThin to small-medium locs"Standard loc beads"8-10mmMedium locs"Large hole beads"10-14mmThick locs"Dreadlock beads" (generic)Varies widelyAlways check the actual hole size

Sizing for Different Bead Materials

Different materials behave differently even at the same hole size:

Metal Beads (Gold, Silver, Stainless Steel)

Metal beads have rigid, fixed holes. The size listed is exact, so there is no flexibility. Accuracy matters most with metal beads. If the listing says 8mm hole, that is exactly what you get.

Tip: Metal beads in Nigeria's humid climate can sometimes feel tighter when your locs absorb moisture. Account for this by going 1mm larger than you think you need.

Crystal and Glass Beads

These also have fixed holes and no give. Size carefully, and be gentle when threading to avoid chipping the bead or tugging your loc.

Wooden Beads

Wooden bead holes tend to have slightly smoother, more forgiving edges than metal. They may feel slightly easier to thread even at the same hole size. However, wood can swell with moisture, so store them dry.

Stone and Gemstone Beads

Natural stone beads (like onyx) can have slightly irregular holes. The size listed is approximate. When buying stone beads, order one bead first to test the fit before buying a full set.

What If You Are Between Sizes?

If your locs measure right at the boundary between two sizes, here is what to do:

Go with the larger size if:

• You want easy on-and-off (you swap beads frequently)

• Your locs are still growing or maturing

• You moisturize your locs regularly (products add slight bulk)

Go with the smaller size if:

• You want a snug fit that stays without rubber bands

• Your locs are fully mature and unlikely to change size

• You do not mind using a bobby pin or crochet hook to thread them

Sizing for Special Loc Types

Freeform Locs

Freeform locs are often irregular in shape and vary significantly in thickness. Measure your thickest loc and add an extra 2-3mm when choosing bead hole size. Adjustable loc cuffs are often a better choice than fixed-hole beads for freeform locs.

Faux Locs and Crochet Locs

Faux locs tend to be more uniform but often thicker than natural locs. Most faux locs are 8-12mm in diameter, so look for beads with 10-14mm holes. Wrap-style faux locs may compress slightly, so the bead can be a tighter fit than expected.

Interlocked Locs

Interlocked locs are often tighter and more compact than palm-rolled locs of similar thickness. They may measure slightly smaller than they look. Use the string method for the most accurate reading.

Two-Strand Twist Locs

If your locs are maintained with two-strand twists, measure when they are freshly twisted (at their tightest). This gives you the most accurate baseline.

How Twinkle Locs Sizes Their Beads

At Twinkle Locs, every product listing includes:

• Bead outer diameter (for visual reference)

• Bead hole diameter (for fit)

• Recommended loc size (so you do not have to do the maths)

• Material weight (so you know how heavy they will feel)

If you are ever unsure, our customer support can help you find the right fit. Just send a photo of your locs alongside a coin or ruler for scale, and we will recommend the perfect size.

Shop by loc size at Twinkle Locs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common loc bead size?

The most common bead hole size is 8-10mm, which fits medium locs (roughly pencil-width). This is the most popular loc size in Nigeria, so you will find the widest selection of bead styles in this range.

How do I know my loc bead size without measuring?

Try the pencil test. If your loc is thinner than a standard pencil (7mm), look for beads with 6-8mm holes. If your loc is about pencil-width, go for 8-10mm. If it is thicker than a pencil, look for 10mm and above. For the most accurate result, use the string method described in this guide.

Can one bead size fit all my locs?

If your locs are relatively uniform, yes. Choose a size that fits your thickest loc comfortably. It will be slightly loose on your thinner locs, but a rubber band underneath easily secures it. If your locs vary a lot in thickness, you may want two bead sizes.

What if I order beads and they do not fit?

If beads are too small, do not force them. Forcing can damage your locs. Return or exchange them for a larger size. If they are too big, you can use small rubber bands or loc cuffs underneath each bead to hold them in place. Twinkle Locs includes sizing guidance with every order and offers exchanges if the fit is not right.

Do locs change size over time?

Yes. Locs generally get thicker during the first 1-2 years as they mature and lock tighter. After full maturity (usually 2-3 years), they stabilize. Some people's locs thin slightly as they age. If you are in the early stages, consider buying beads that are slightly larger than what fits now, as your locs will likely grow into them.

Should I measure wet or dry locs?

Measure your locs when they are completely dry. Wet locs swell and will give you a larger measurement that does not reflect their normal state. If you just washed your locs, wait at least 24 hours before measuring.

Get the Right Fit Every Time

Buying loc beads should be exciting, not stressful. Measure your locs once using any of the methods above, note your diameter, and use the sizing chart to shop with confidence. When in doubt, go slightly larger, as it is always easier to secure a slightly loose bead than to force on one that is too tight.

Browse Twinkle Locs beads by size and find your perfect fit, shipped from Lagos.