Articles Index

Metal Clay Firing Options

Depending on the type of metal clay you have, from original silver metal clay to copper metal clay, there are a number of options for firing it. This may include anything from a kiln to a simple hand-held torch.

What is Metal Clay?

This silver and gold clay is a great alternative for those who want to work with metal but not with a torch.

Easy Stone Setting

Setting stones doesn't have to be difficult. Here are a few tricks of the trade.

What Are Wire Clamps?

This article explains what exactly wire clamps are and how do you use them when it comes to jewelry making.

Bartering for Beads and Jewelry Lessons

Have you ever considered bartering? The average person has other skills besides making jewelry which can be traded for anything from jewelry supplies to free jewelry making lessons. Here are some tips for jewelry making and bartering.

Tips for Frugal Jewelry Making

Renew, reuse, recycle, and save money is a popular mantra for all aspects of our lives, and these ideas relate to jewelry making as well. Here are some tips to help you become creatively frugal when it comes to jewelry designing.

Clay Roller

This simple little tool is a must have when rolling out clay, such as metal clay, polymer clay, and paper clay.

Craft Knife

A craft knife is a very versatile tool used for a huge variety of craft projects including jewelry making, especially when working with paper, metal clay, or polymer clay materials.

Cold Heat Glue Gun

Learn about the ColdHeat glue gun and how you can use it your jewelry making and other craft projects.

Jewelry Business Tax Tips

If you have a jewelry business, then one of the chores that goes along with being a professional jewelry designer is taxes, ugh! Here are some handy tips for organizing and getting yourself ready for that dreaded tax time.

Bead Bumpers

Bead bumpers is a jewelry component from Beadalon designed to be used instead of knots.

Bead on a Wire: A Book Review

Find out what's between the pages of author and editor Sharilyn Miller's latest book.

Annealing Metal, Beads, and Glass Jewelry

Learn about this important jewelry making technique that is essential for ensuring the inegrity of your lampwork beads, fused glass, wire, or metal jewelry.

15 Reasons Beads Are Better Than Chocolate

This is silly but fun, especially if you are a bead addict on a diet!

Wire Pin Vice

Wire workers use a pin vise to twist the ends of wire for a decorative effect.

Wire Cutters

If you plan to work with wire, then wire cutters are going to be one of your most important tools. Find out what you need to know about selecting the best wire cutter for your needs.

Bend-Nosed Pliers

Bent-Nosed Pliers have a lot in common with chain-nosed pliers. They are versatile and used for all kinds of jewelry making techniques.

Chain-Nosed Pliers

Chain-nosed pliers are a versatile hand-tool used for a variety of jewelry techniques, from wire work to beading.

Round-Nosed Pliers

Round-nosed pliers are probably one of the most important tools for wire and metal workers. Learn what to look for when purchasing round-nosed pliers and what they are best used for when making jewelry.

Tips for Visiting a Bead Show

Bead shows are a blast, but if you haven't been to one before, they can be a little overwhelming too. Here are some tips to help you navigate your way through a bead show so that you have a wonderful and productive day.

Tips for Visiting a Rock and Gem Show

Rock and Gem shows are excellent sources for locating unique materials to incorporate into your jewelry designs. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your day at a rock show.

Wire Eye Glass Chain Adapter

Use this easy to make wire adapter to turn a beaded eye glass chain into a necklace.

A Jewelry Designer Visits a Quilt Store

Don't limit yourself to traditional jewelry making materials. Here are some great ideas I discovered at a quilt shop one day.

The Issue of Right Versus Wrong Jewelry Making Techniques

Is there one way only to make jewelry? Are there specific techniques that we must follow no matter what? I explore this sometimes controversial topic.

How to Design a Jewelry Gift

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and birthdays are just a few times during the year that we are called upon to find that perfect gift. As jewelry makers, we usually make that gift. But how do you start?