10 steps to start making jewelry

[Randy]

Source: https://www.cooksongold.com/blog/inspiration/10-steps-to-start-making-jewellery/

We know that starting your jewellery making journey can be overwhelming which is why, as a part of our how to make jewellery hub we want to share some of our best advice and tips on what we think you need to know when learning to make jewellery.

1. Choose the type of jewellery you want to make​

There are a lot of different areas of jewellery making to consider. Each of these require different tools, equipment, skills and knowledge. Start first by taking into consideration your current skill level.



If you are a complete beginner, the following areas may be ideal:

• Beading – Bead jewellery making is a fun and quite simple way of making jewellery. There are metal beads, plastic beads, stone beads, glass beads and more. You can start off simple by threading your beads onto thread or bead cord to make a simple bracelet. Once you get the hang of this you can invest in a few more tools and start working up to create earrings, necklaces and more.
• Metal Stamping –Metal stamping is a great way to make personalised jewellery. It is a technique where you mark metal with a stamp to create an impression. This could be a special pattern, a specific phrase or even a meaningful date. Metal stamping does take a lot of practice to get the technique right.
• Silver Clay – Working with silver clay is fun but requires a bit more knowledge and understanding. A fun, mouldable clay that requires firing with a torch or a kiln, silver clay is a great way to create detailed and intricate jewellery pieces.

The above are just some of the areas of jewellery making that are ideal for the beginner. Once you’ve grasped basic techniques, an understanding of tools and how they work you can begin to work your way up to using precious metals and more. Choosing the type of jewellery you want to make is the first big step on your journey. For more, view our introduction to jewellery making blog to get an idea of a few areas that you could get started in.

2. Get the tools & materials you need​

Having the right tools and materials is important for any jewellery maker. Different types of jewellery making require different tools which is why it can be overwhelming to know where to start. There are however, a few basic tools that every jewellery maker needs, so these are a great place to start…

• Flat nose pliers to open jump rings, finish wire-wrapped ends and complete a multitude of other tasks.
• Round nose pliers to make wire loops and hoops, bends, clasps and jump rings – basically anything with a nice smooth curve.
• Wire cutters to get your wire to the exact length you need
• A ruler to measure your components.
• A jeweller’s saw for all your tiny, intricate cuts of metal.
• Needle Files – half round and safety back cut needle files are must haves for any jewellery maker
• Scriber – an ideal tool for marking out before drilling
• Emery paper – ideal for the preparation of metal

3. Allocate a work space​

A spacious workshop is every jewellery maker’s dream but isn’t necessary when first starting out. All you need is a dedicated area where you can work comfortably. A space on the dining table or in the corner of a room is perfect for getting started. As long as you have enough space to lay out your tools and components, reach them with ease and be able to create with no restrictions, then this is the ideal starting point.

4. Learn the basics: Terminology & Skills​

This is one of the most important jewellery making steps. As with all things new, it’s a good idea to get to grips with the phrases used so you know what’s what. You can check out our glossary here.

It’s also handy to learn a few of the basic skills. Our simple how-to videos are a great way to learn how to get started.

If you’re looking to start making jewellery more frequently, you might even wish to consider investing in some books, you can find a range of books on specific techniques, general jewellers guides and more.

5. Be inspired​

Jewellery making is incredibly creative, so before you start, try searching for some designs that inspire you. We have lots of inspiration to spark some ideas, as well as plenty of projects for you to try out. Otherwise, Pinterest and Instagram (as well as many other platforms) are great too.

6. Learn from the experts​

We have a growing range of inspirational and supportive videos on our Youtube channel, have you taken a look? Whether you want to learn how to make something specific, need help understanding a technique or you’re just curious about how to use a certain tool, we have it all covered.

7. Practice​

As with any new skill, practice makes perfect and the same goes for jewellery making. Whether you have previously worked on anything creative or not, it’s hard to get techniques perfect in one go so don’t be disheartened if you make mistakes. Keep practicing, watch a few tutorials and read a few guides for help. Learn from your mistakes and keep going, every jeweller has to start at the beginning.

8. Join the community​

There are tens of thousands of people just like you, sharing their journey and experience, and helping each other along the way. Join them today to share jewellery making ideas, tips and tricks. Get onto social media pages (including our own Facebook and Instagram pages!) and start uploading your pictures, get advice from fellow jewellers on any issues you may be having and read the recommendations on what the best tools are for different projects. The jewellery making community is incredibly supportive.

9. Be warned – It’s addictive​

Once you’ve cracked one technique you’ll soon want to learn something new. Being able to make bracelets, earrings, rings and so much more is very satisfying and the endless methods and materials you can use to make jewellery is enticing. You can’t say we didn’t warn you, but don’t worry, the possibilities are endless and the support is here.

10. Enjoy Your New Hobby!​

Last, but definitely not least, enjoying yourself is key. Jewellery making is fun, creative, exciting and therapeutic. Enjoy the journey!

Thoughts?

 

[Nebulous]

I have a few family members who have gotten into jewelry making. Nothing wrong with that. Some of the stuff they've made is pretty creative AND they can sell it too.