Jewelry Making
By Jennlk84
@Jennlk84 (4205)
United States
January 1, 2010 6:33pm CST
One of the things I'd like to do in this new year is begin a new hobby - jewelry making! I have bought a few books about it and have started to buy some beads as I find them on sale or ones that catch my eye.
I'm looking for advice and tips from jewelry makers out there! I plan on mainly using wire and beads to make jewelry but am open to other ideas.
What would you recommend I purchase to get started? Please share your tips!
2 people like this
6 responses
@workinggene (104)
• Philippines
3 Jan 10
Ask for a free catalog from firemountaingems.com so that you can have the idea of what the items are and what you would like to have or needed for certain projects. It's totally free, no need to pay for shipping. It's like a big book of different kinds of beads, wires and pliers, like a glossary of sorts with pictures and prices. You don't have to buy from them but the free catalog is really helpful.
1 person likes this
@workinggene (104)
• Philippines
4 Jan 10
No problem. Their catalog really helped me plan my designs.
1 person likes this
@3SnuggleBunnies (16374)
• United States
2 Jan 10
I don't make jewelry but if you haven't signed up already for JoAnn's or Michael's mailing list to get their coupons.... usually you get a new one for 40% off every couple weeks.
1 person likes this
@3SnuggleBunnies (16374)
• United States
2 Jan 10
Don't have an AC Moore here. I've heard of hobby lobby but that's like 2 counties over! *LOL* I'm not driving that far! But if I happen to be in the area perhaps ;0)
1 person likes this
@ElusiveButterfly (45940)
• United States
2 Jan 10
There is a nice stretchy type of filiment that is used quite often when making bracelets. You should get some of that as well.
@ElusiveButterfly (45940)
• United States
2 Jan 10
I am not too certain as to what it is called. I have been out of the loop for so long where making jewelry is concerned. But, I do have several pieces of jewelry that have been made with this stretchy cord.
1 person likes this
@creationsbyrobin (3071)
• United States
13 Jan 10
FireMountainGems catalog is a must if you are looking to to make glass bead jewelry. Many of the companies that sell at Michael's or AC Moores sell through FireMt and at a much reduced price than the craft stores.
If there is a possibility of you wanting to sell your jewelry creations (whether online or at craft shows) you might want to consider some of the recent laws passed in the US over the last 18 months that have to do with lead in the components.
If you are looking to make jewelry with sterling silver, silver etc, let me know and I can share a couple online sources that offer better pricing than FireMt.
@bmuchler (441)
• United States
3 Mar 10
Check upcoming free classes at Michael's Craft Store. The one close to where I live is having a bead/jewelry making class on March 13. I am interested in learning how to. I am hoping they will let people know what they need to start. I've also noticed that Michael's also has kits. I see them on the website. It looks like it has everything you need to make what the pattern is for that kit.
