subject: Uncover the secrets of Jewelry crafting [print this page] Uncover the secrets of Jewelry crafting Uncover the secrets of Jewelry crafting
Jewelry creation is a great hobby and can even be a great way to make money working from the comfort of your own home. Jewelry design is also a great way to express your personality and accent your clothing collection. If you are fascinated in learning to design and create jewelry the best place to start with is working with Beads.
Because beads are not high priced and require no specialized or expensive equipment to get started, bead making offers a great way to introduce you to the world of jewelry making. All you need to get started creating one of a kind custom jewelry pieces are a few basic tools and of course a good choice of beads.
Deciding the right beads is simply a matter of individual liking. Some jewelry designers choose working with glass beads while others maintain working with other mediums such as wooden beads, hematite, copper and other materials. For the bead making novice some of the most common and not high priced options are acrylic beads. Acrylic Beadsare similar to glass beads in appearance but are lighter and easier to work with making them the perfect choice for beginners. Acrylic beads also cost significantly less than other bead choices which is perfect for the budget conscious designer. No matter what category of beads you choose, purchasing your beadsis a good way to save money and expand your collection.
Once you have selected the appropriate beads for your activity the next step is to purchase the necessary materials and tools to string your necklace or bracelet. While there are plenty tools that can benefit a jewelry creator, there are a few elements that you will need to get started. Chances are you can probably obtain them in your husband's toolbox or you can purchase them for relatively little money at any hardware store or bead supply retailer.
In order to string beads into a complete piece you will need a couple of different types of pliers. Round nose pliers are probably the most commonly used item in a jewelry designer's tool kit. Round nose pliers are used primarily for turning wire and creating loops. Used for almost every other task chain pliers are another important tool in your arsenal. Chain pliers are used for everything from holding beads and components in place to opening and closing links. Finally, wire cutters are helpful for cutting and trimming stringing material and wire. In addition to these three tools, crimping pliers, tweezers, and a beading needle will all go a long way to simplify your work when stringing beads.
Once you have the complete equipment, all that is left to do is purchase your stringing supplies. The most common stringing materials are bead stringing wire, monofilament, and nylon thread. Depending on the nature of your project each has their own unique benefits to offer. Once you have selected the perfect string for your project, you'll simply need to choose findings to complete your project. Findings are those jewelry making supplies such as clasps, crimps, and jump rings. The easiest way to complete your project is by using a clasp and jump ring. As a result this method is the one most commonly suggested for beginners. Simply crimp and attach the clasp to one end and jump ring to the other and you have a finished piece of jewelry you can wear with pride.
Making your own beaded jewelry is a great and fun way to spruce up your jewelry cabinet and express your own sense of fashion and style. Whether you enjoy working with glass or acrylic beads, wood or pearls; assembly your own pieces isn't just for experts and professional designers. Rather it is a hobby anyone can enjoy from the comfort of their own living room.
