Not that long ago, when I needed some jewelry supplies quickly (yes, like a head pin emergency), I found that I may not always be able to find what I needed at my local craft store, and the nearest bead shop in my area is about a half hour's drive. The closest craft store to me is Michael's, and when I would run in for a few emergency jewelry items, I was usually struck by two issues: lack of quality and quantity. The store had maybe one half of an aisle dedicated to jewelry, and the supplies they had were far inferior to what I could order on-line or get from a bead shop.
However, that has radically changed over the past few years, at least at the Micheal's where I shop. They have at least two full isles of jewelry supplies as well as ends of aisle and island displays full of beads, stringing materials, findings, and more. On a recent visit, I even saw that they had chasing hammers, metal sheet, and anvils! Wow! Talk about a world of difference.
Besides the amount of supplies, the quality has also increased considerably. They carry name-brand materials now from company's like Beadalon and Cousin. Pictures are some findings from a line called Elegance manufactured by the Cousin company. Copper findings from this line are plated with precious metals such as gold and platinum and then coated with a clear lacquer. Granted, it's not the "real thing," but considering most of these were priced around $4 for 3 to 6 or so pieces, that's not too bad.
While I still will continue to purchase supplies on-line, especially when I need items in bulk, I have to say that I'm really pleased to see that craft stores have finally realized how popular jewelry making is! What about you? Take my poll and let me know your thoughts in comments as well.
Comments
Michaels and JoAnn have been offering an ever increasing supply of jewelry making supplies for awhile now (at least in my area). Also, you can sign up to receive email coupons and sales flyers, at their websites. I agree, buying online is my first choice, especially sites that offer free shipping, but with the brick and motar stores coupons, I have been able to beat the online supply sites price (especially when sales tax is lower that the exorbitant shipping and handling fees some websites charge).
I have several on-line sites that I order from, and “maybe” go to craft stores occasionally when they have things I want on sale. Even Walmart has stepped up their selections, but not enough to buy from them frequently. I watch their items and if they have something on sale that looks like good enough quality, I will buy it.
Naturally, the cost factor is one of the biggest reasons for wanting to shop for wholesale jewelry supplies.Locating the best places to get wholesale beads and jewelry supplies can sometimes be difficult for newbies who are just getting started in the at home jewelry making business.