Wholesale vendors offer beads in a variety of shapes and sizes. Getty The craft and hobby segment of the retail sector has grown into a $27 billion industry while other retail sectors have declined.

When JOANN closes its doors, you can still find beads at stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels. However, if you want something a little more specific, Fire Mountain Gems and Beads is one of the ...

Sam Reece’s book pairs craft projects with personal essays about what the act of gluing beads to trash has taught her about herself. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times) ...