Getting Started - Tools

For those of you who are just beginning to create your own jewelry, you have probably already started experimenting.  If you're anything like me, you often make large purchases of crafting tools with the dream that you am going to learn how to do something new and incredible. First they sit on the dinning table enthusiastically waiting to become the next great work of art.  Maybe you play with them a little (or maybe not) before they are buried under an ever-growing pile of life that is eventually dissembled and shoved into nearest the closet with all of the other sad unused toys.

If you are one of the fortunate few who know better than to continue this chaotic cycle, then I suggest you first purchase beads and findings that are inexpensive so you can play with them without feeling guilty.  Once you have tried a few different designs and you decide that beading is definitely for you, then you can upgrade to better quality materials.

Beginner's Tools - Pliers
Most importantly, you need a set of nice jewelry making tools.  Without the proper tools, it is EXTREMELY DIFFICULT if not impossible to create a finished polished look.  The following are my favorite tools to play with.

Cutting Pliers

 

You will need cutting pliers for just about everything. They can be used for cutting wire, thread, and string or for cutting apart a new string of beads that you are ready to work with.  I very rarely use scissors for anything with this handy tool in my possession. The pair show here can be purchased here for $6.17 or you may find a better deal on any of the listed items at your local craft store.

Round Nose Pliers

Round nose pliers are used for creating loops. Whether you choose to work with eyepins or prefer to create your own metal findings with wire, this tool can be extremely helpful for creating even loops.  The nose is graduated so you can chose what size your loops will be. This pair can be found here for $9.75.

Flat Nose Pliers

This tool is great for closing loops or gripping wire.  They can also be used for flattening wire if needed.  I didn't appreciate it much at first, but it has become one of my favorite and most used tools.  The one pictured above can be purchased here for $10.75.

Chain Nose Pliers

I use chain nose pliers for opening loops or chain and for gripping, however, they have many other amazing uses that you can discover for yourself.  Make sure they have resistance and stay open (like the pair above) when they are at rest.  You will find this very helpful in your jewelry making endeavors.  The pair shown above can be purchased here for $28.00.

Bent Chain Nose Pliers

Bent chain nose pliers can be used for the same purpose as the regular chain nose pliers, but sometimes they are better for certain needs that may arise. I like using both pairs together at times.  This pair can be found here for $12.29.

Inexpensive Beginner's Plier Set

This set is only $20.84 here.

Other useful pliers for advanced jewelry makers:

Step Jaw Pliers - Used for standard sized loops

Nylon Jaw Pliers - Used for flattening or straightening wire

Loop Closing Pliers - These are self-explanatory

Crimping Pliers - Used for closing crimp beads

Gem Setting Pliers - Another self-explanatory pair

Split Ring Pliers - Used to open split rings

Hole Punching Pliers - Self-explanatory

View Jillian's Jewels at www.etsy.com/shop/azazil29