Where to Start Jewelry Making?
Sunday April 8, 2007
Learning any new hobby can be overwhelming at first. As one new jewelry maker put it on the forum, "I bought a couple of books, and they made it sound like I need every type of jewelry tool or plier ever made. What do I need really? What are the basic tools that I can't do without? [...] I'm trying to figure out what I need, and just as important, what I don't really need. I've spent so much money already, it makes me cringe. I'd like to go forward spending money only on the things that are necessary."Make Jewelry Now
Bead Stringing for Beginners E-Course
Getting Started Jewelry Making Methods
It can seem like you have to spend a ton of money when you first start out, but it is important to make an informed decision before you get too far. While I have a great deal of information on this site, here are a few places that beginners may want to check out first when starting to explore this wonderful hobby:
Comments
Don’t forget the value of a visit to your local bead store or jewelry supply house. Most bead stores will show you the basics of pearl knotting, stringing and cold wire work (wire wrapping or working with a jig) for free or in classes. They often also have the best deals on the tools you need with demonstrations and instruction on how to use them. Catalogs and on-line stores won’t show you how to crimp or put a saw blade in your saw!
For a local bead store try visiting http://www.findbeadshops.com/ or check your local phone book.
I would say that the best way to start is to just get basic round nose pliers and something to cut the wire. Then just buy a basic set of beads and wires cheaper the better and play with them to develop a style. That is where I started on a low budget now I am trying to make money selling online.