Bead and jewelry making supplies and tools can quickly add up to major purchases. In addition, you may find huge differences in both quality and function of these items. Beading is one of the most simple and affordable types of jewelry making to get into; plus it has the most versatility when it comes to color, style, and design.
We are back with another post to talk about the tools that you will need to create your homemade jewelry. In previous posts, you learned how to create your basic toolkit of beading tools as well as the best tools to have when you incorporate beading with wire.
So what is the next step now? You've got storage in place and your tools...Oh yea! You need some materials to create your jewelry pieces with.
The first thing you need to decide is what part of making jewelry are you going to start? Now this is not a simple question to be answered, there are so many different types of techniques in jewelry design. For example, there is bead stringing, bead weaving, wire wrapping or just a simple bracelet or necklace.
Bead Stringing –
Bead Stringing is exactly what it sounds like; simply putting beads on a string. I listed this first since it is the most basic techniques and most common for beaded jewelry. It does not require a large amount of skill or specialty tools.
Would definitely suggest you start with one of these types of projects first.
Create a bracelet or necklace using beads of your choice and learn to crimp using crimping pliers.
Bead Weaving –
There are basically two types of bead weaving, one that involves a loom and the other that is done off of a loom. It is the last type that we will be talking about.
All off-loom techniques can be accomplished using a single needle and thread, but some have two-needle variations. Bead weaving results in a flat piece of beading. These creations show pictures or icons, or are done in patterns.
As a technique for making handmade jewelry, stringing is definitely easier than say, bead weaving, but once you become skilled weaving is also a very rewarding technique.
Wire Wrapping –
Wire wrapping is one of the loveliest ways of converting that beautiful stone, shell, or other special small object into handcrafted jewelry. Learn to even design your own rings with precious metal wiring.
Wire wrapping enthusiasts can select from sterling silver, gold-filled or permanently colored solid copper wire.
Now onto the best items to have in your inventory
Ear Wires –
Ear wires are defined simply as pierced earring wire findings with an eye pin attached for connecting to an earring body. If you haven't guessed they are perfect for when your are creating new ear rings.
Crimp Tubes –
Crimp tubes are critical pieces in jewelry design when you are making a piece that is utilizing beading wire and you need to attach a clasp to the end of it.
Getting a handful of the basic ones is fine to start out with; however I'm sure as you've noticed with this hobby is there are many different varieties of all the materials in making jewelry.
Head Pins -
Head pins are one of the staples of many jewelry makers. While you can make your own, it's usually a good idea to have an assortment of these on hand.
They are used to make a variety of jewelry pieces like earrings, bracelets or necklaces. They come in various lengths and usually expressed in inches. These head pins and eye pins are two of the most basic and often-used jewelry findings.
For everything from simple dangles to elaborate constructions, you'll want these components!
Clasps -
Clasps are a very functional and required component used in jewellery making. Their primary function is to secure to ends of your jewelry, such as a bracelet or necklace.
You can choose from sterling silver, copper, premium silver plated, and silver tone clasps and many others, even multistrand clasps.
Clasps are sometimes set with gemstones which can provide a beautiful blending with gemstone beads. They are the finishing touch that makes your bead work stand out and stay secure.
Jump Rings -
Jump rings are one of the most basic and often-used jewelry findings. From elementary applications like attaching a clasp or pendant, to complex functions like building intricate chainmaille, these are essential components! A jump ring is simply a loop of webbing around a steel ring with a snap hook on the end. They’re very simple and incredibly sturdy.
As I said, a jump ring is a simple wire loop. To open them, push one end forward and one end back.
Jump rings can also be joined together to form a simple chain. You can buy jump rings cheaply at any art or beading supply store; however once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that making them is easy and of course much less expensive.
To Wrap It All Up
These items will become a staple of any project that you endeavor to create and will always come in handy if you be sure to store these away in your project room. Homemade jewelry making is an extremely rewarding hobby, as long as you take the time to be properly prepared.
Creativity is encouraged and fun is also required when learning how to make jewelry!
No comments:
Post a Comment