Jewelry Making: Expert Guides and Resources

It can be difficult to know what you really need when it comes to jewelry and beading design, especially if you're standing in front of racks of supplies. Don't fret; use the following list of supplies you should have handy so you can create jewelry at a moment's notice. And watch the video above to learn about the tools you should have and where to find jewelry making supplies.

Before you begin making jewelry or beading projects, gather some basic tools and supplies and become familiar with recommended lengths for necklaces, bracelets, and more. Consider how to personalize your bead work by using birthstones (precious or semiprecious) or their crystal equivalents. And when you need help — with design inspiration, supply sources, or technique — take advantage of the rich online resources created by other jewelry-making fans.

When you're designing your jewelry, keep this handy chart close by — it lists individual bead size (in millimeters), strand lengths (in inches), and the approximate number of beads that will fit on the strand. So if you have a specific length for a necklace or bracelet, use this table to help you figure out a

Crimping is simply squeezing or flattening specially designed beads and tubes to secure jewelry elements (like clasps or beads). Usually, you use crimping to finish a jewelry piece in a clean, professional manner. A quick and easy way to finish jewelry is to use a pair of crimping pliers and the two-phase crimp method: Position your strung crimp tube or bead in the lower jaw of the crimping pliers.

With all of the stringing choices out there for your jewelry and beading projects, it can get a little crazy sometimes. It's great to have an assortment of stringing materials, but the following list shows the things you should always keep on hand: Nylon size 4 (black and white) Nylon size 2 (black and white) 0.

If you need some help deciding which wire you need to begin your jewelry and beading projects, use this list of wires (complete with gauges and hardness) as a good start: Gold-filled 22-, 21-, and 20-gauge round dead-soft wire Sterling silver 22-, 21-, and 20-gauge round dead-soft wire Gold-filled 24-,