In this second installment on my week-long look at jewelry basics, I am thinking about tools. Boy, they are so important! Poor quality tools or the wrong tools can affect the outcome of a jewelry design greatly. Granted, you don't need every tool ever made by man (thought that would be nice, don't you think?), but here are what I think are some must have tools for basic jewelry making:
Chain-Nose Pliers
Wire Cutters
Jeweler's Files
Did I miss any? Is there a tool you think should be added to this list?
Comments
first time reader and first time jewelry maker. Your site is great. I am beginning research to start to make my own jewelry to which I have found everything right here.
Headed to the store tonight with my two girls ( 4 and 2 yrs) in tow to select the gear for our projects!
I would include a good crimp tool. Especially for a lesser experienced jewelry maker and especially since a good crimp prevents the whole necklace from falling apart. I own many handmade necklaces from other artists who have had poor crimps. Needless to say, I have had to restring them all. Jewelry makers need to know that crimp beads and crimp tools vary in size.
@kate – Have a wonderful time shopping tonight. Thank you for the kind words, and welcome to jewelry making!
@Tracy – Very true! I much prefer a crimper over just flattening them with pliers.
What about a wire gauge tool?
I am heartbroken that I cannot get one in Australia as I think it would be the ultimate tool to have when working with wire. Sometimes labels wear off.
I use bent nosed pliers a lot and would recommend having a pair on hand. Really enjoy your newsletters. Thanks so much.
Can somebody help me with split rings? I think there is a special tool available. Or is there some other way to close my jump rings?
@ Beulah – You can find instructions on how to properly open and close jump rings here:
http://jewelrymaking.about.com/od/wiretechniquesinfo/a/070406_3.htm
I absolutely adore my chain nose parallel pliers. Imagine chain nose pliers that don’t pinch bits of metal when they close. They’re certainly a few steps up along the obscure scale, and cost rather a bit more, but I can’t imagine going back to regular pliers.
Beulah, yes, they make a tool for working with split rings. Check Fire Mountain Gems.com for one.