Creating your own jewelry is a fun and rewarding activity. One of the easiest and most popular jewelry making methods is the simple creation of necklaces and bracelets with beads, chains and strings.
These types of items are often the way that jewelry makers begin because it just couldn’t be simpler. All you need to start with are some simple beads, as well as something to attach them to.
If you are just getting started, find a retailer that sells a wide selection of beads so you have lots to choose from. Many of these retailers can be found online, which can save you time if you buy online rather in stores. Pick out a good selection of basic beads that you find attractive or interesting.
The next thing you’ll need is chains and strings to attach the beads to. There are many types of strings available. Elastic string is great for bracelets. Stringing on this type of material allows you to make a bracelet that can be stretched over the hand and still fit snugly on the wrist.
Other string materials include rope and velvet string. These are all great for bracelets, which is a good place to start. String is usually categorized by size, so if you have a variety of bead sizes, you’ll need a few different string sizes as well. Check the sizes of your beads to make sure you are getting the appropriate string.
Experiment with different arrangements of colors and shapes until you start to feel comfortable with your jewelry making. All it takes is some time and a little patience. Once you feel comfortable you can add more beads and string to your collection and start trying new designs.
Necklaces sometimes allow for more creativity. You can string necklaces like bracelets, hang pendants from a chain, or create your own pendant with wire and beads to hang from a necklace. For this more advanced jewelry making, you’ll need chains in different sizes and lengths, as well as wire.
You may also want to add larger and more interesting beads to your collection and start experimenting with more challenging creations. Wire and beads are also a good start to earring making.
Before you get started, make sure that you have the right tools. You’ll want a good, sharp pair of scissors for the string, and several different pairs of pliers if you are working with wire. Another essential part of jewelry making is having a good work area.
A clear desk with a good chair and proper lighting is important. You may find that hours go by quickly while making jewelry and you’ll want a comfortable seat with good light. Storage for your beads and tools should be organized. Any type of hobby or craft box with separate compartments is a good place to start.
Remember that your first creations may be simple and unexciting, but the more time you spend working the better your designs will be. Who knows, you may end up with your own designer jewelry collection!
Crystal Bead Shop offers a wide selection of quality beads, jewelry making tools, chain and strings and everything else you need to make handcrafted jewelry.
Wendy Moyer is an independent journalist.