Mumsnet Talk

I've always been interested in the idea of jewellery making and even had a pipe dream from years back to make my own bridal pieces and sell them online (tiaras, hairclips etc) - yes I know, me and 1000s others!!

Anyway does anyone have any tips as to where to start? Are kits like this one any good in order to get to grips with and learn the basics? That's probably a bit colourful for my liking - I'd like to make pearl and crystal pieces but I can't find any starter sets with that kind of material.

I need products that I can order online and have delivered - I live abroad and popping to my nearest arts and crafts store isn't really an option I'm afraid! Thanks in advance

Hi mirai I have recently started making my own jewellery and found Amazon and ebay really good for buying all the bits.

I started with a book from Amazon that explained the basic techniques and materials and tools. It was much easier to buy supplies once I knew what I needed.

Mirai, try searching for jewellery kits. I've found these
http://www.spoiltrottenbeads.co.uk/jewellery-making-kits-809-c.asp
http://www.bluestreakbeads.co.uk/acatalog/jewellery_making_kits.html
http://www.shineyrocks.co.uk/jewellery-kits-c-196.html?zenid=1qssjipf45sjq75m95ht40ens3

Thanks both, Siikibam so you would recommend jewellery kits as the way to go?

Blaidd, which book did you buy?

I can't say personally as I've never bought one - I taught mysel using books. But it's not a bad way to give you a taster. You can always buy a book after you do a kit. There are also plenty of tutorials (free and paid for) on the Internet.

Ok, thanks. Do you sell your jewellery or is it just for fun? I'm getting married later this year and would love to be able to make my own hairpiece

I've only really sold to family and friends so far. I'm going to try selling online. Fingers crossed, but it does take time so patience is key.
I made the jewellery, bouquet and purse for my wedding. Also the bracelets/flowers for the mothers (it was a double wedding!), a necklace for my mum, and the necklace and earrings for my bridesmaid and sister (she was the other bride). Was worth it but tiring!!
If you're looking at tiaras/hair pieces, I'm sure there are kits out there Just don't leave it too late lol!

I did a tiara course (at Shiney Company in Bristol) and it was brilliant, I'd definitely look for a local day course if you can spare the time, it may well work out a money saver to save all the time and wire you'll waste experimenting on your own. Also for tiaras etc, in addition to the kit you suggested I think you'd need some nylon pliers for straightening the wire. It's all pretty easy once you get going...good luck!

Youtube is really good for tutorials on various techniques.

The trouble with kits is that for different types of jewellery you need different tools.
A bead mat is a good investment, they are cheap and reduce the amount of time spent chasing beads around the floor.

There are also helpful forums about www.uk-beaders.co.uk has a good forum with lots of helpful people and pictures so you can see all the different stuff you can make.

beadsunlimited is a good website for buying beads.
You will find that most beady websites bend over themselves to be helpful and if you e-mail them they may help you find the best purchases.

I started out buying a few beadmixes from hobbycraft and a plier set from jillybeads.

I have recentlly started selling my stuff. I did two craft fairs last year before Christmas and sold over £100 worth as well as making stuff for family for Christmas.

I have a website and a blog and hope to start moving things on soon.
HTH

Hi, this ones good from thebeadtrail Beginners Jewellery Kit

Amy, I like that one! Thanks

My Mum started her own jewellery making years ago, but she did an evening course run by the local council. Depending on time and funds, that might be another way to do it - more social and you might get a wider range of skills, as well as info on where to buy stuff and what tools etc. you will really need, and which may not be so necessary.

However, if books and youtube work just as well for you, then no need. Good luck!

I'd love to do a course Thumbwitch however I live abroad, up a mountain, so youtube and books it is

- yes that would make it a little more tricky course-wise!

I started with The Encycloprdia of Wire Jewellery Techniqueswhich I found really helpful.

Amazon have lots of books covering all different types of jewellery making.