Think you lack the skills or creativity to make your own jewelry? Think again! With so many supplies and stores to choose from, beading and jewelry-making has become so easy and accessible that almost anyone can do it. All you need is some time, imagination and inspiration. Whether you’re making something for friends, family or keeping it (gasp!) for yourself, earrings, necklaces and bracelets make a great gift – or addition to outfits.

Tools you’ll need:

• Small pair of needle-nose or crimping pliers
• Wire cutters
• A clean towel (to lay beads out on)

Supplies you’ll need:

• Variety of beads, varying in size, shape, color and style (including small beads just for spacers, some gold, silver, and color)
• Crimping beads for securing clasps (in gold and silver)
• A variety of jewelry wire colors
• Needles for stringing
• Glue (for keeping knots from unraveling)
• Hemp for macramé pieces
• Beadtips (or calottes) for covering knots at the ends of a string of beads

Ready, set, go!
Ready to get started? There are a few important things to keep in mind, such as the fact that there aren’t any right or wrong styles or ideas – your imagination is what counts so use that as your guide. Make what you like or, if you’re giving pieces away, what you think others will like.

When it comes time to tackle your first project, start small – earrings are great for beginners. They’ll help you get a feel for the different tools, supplies, techniques and what sort of storage system you’ll need. And speaking of storage systems, consider a kit for holding your supplies. A personal favorite is sub-divided transparent box, which makes it easy to see the tools and beads, yet still keeps them separate and easy to access. A less expensive alternative is snack-sized baggies or baby food jars, which also have the easy-viewing component.

Techniques and Tips
Depending on the piece you want to make, techniques can vary. Some bracelets are a lot easier to make while certain earrings (like chandelier earrings) take more time and patience. Start with a fairly easy project and tackle the more difficult ones as you become more comfortable.

Tip: Many towns and cities have beading stores that offer lessons for how to make different pieces. Check your local listings for stores and consider signing up for a tutorial to get you started.

Here are a few of our favorite books and teaching and supply sites for jewelry making.

• The Best Little Beading Book (Beadwork Books) (Paperback) by Wendy Simpson Conner
• Bead On A Wire: Making Handcrafted Wire and Beaded Jewelry (Paperback) by Sharilyn Miller