A question about pony beads

[hands2talk2u]

I have a budgie (parakeet) and I see a lot of DIY toys that include pony beads. Are these just regular old craft store pony beads or are they special ones for birds? I'd love to make Cayman some homemade toys, but I don't want to hurt him. Also, what types of materials could I use to tie the beads together? I see a lot of ideas for untanned leather, but what else could I use?

[katty08]

This is a late post I know...
I have used just regular craft store beads without any problems. You might want to clean them first though. As for tying them together I use mainly kite string. Hope this helps.