Best suppliers of quality beads etc for jewellery making? Tips on the market?

[DiamondJeezeress]

I'm going to dabble in making jewellery. I used to make load of my own using beads I got mail order and had loads of compliments. I am self employed in another kind of work, so initially I'll be making jewellery for friends and getting feedback before launching it to the public.

I want it to be quite 'special' so am looking for unusual beads that might include real silver and semi precious stones . Anyone know any good suppliers?

Also, does anyone make any money out of running this as a business? I'm not looking for megabucks but a few hundred a month would be great. I've got ideas: craft fairs locally (schools etc), local & national galleries and craft shops, and of course a website. Any tips welcome.

[neonrainbow]

Beadsdirect for semi precious and jillybeads for crystals.

[DiamondJeezeress]

Thanks so much!
years ago I used to buy them from a woman who ran a bead business from a barn somewhere lovely, and produced a gorgeous colour catalogue - very upmarket-and she had lots of interesting beads- wood, ceramic, glass etc- but they went bust. There was also a bead shop in my town but they recently closed.

[Tiggeryoubastard]

Was it Janet Coles? I loved her catalogues.

[DiamondJeezeress]

Yes I think so! I used to LOVE the catalogue which was really heavy A4 size and loads of lovely colour photos. So disappointed when they closed.

The suppliers from the PP look good.

Anyone got any insight into the market? I am being very realistic! I've got a networking base through my existing work ( self employed) and friends who work in PR for local small businesses, which will help. I know it's a crowded market- but would love to hear from anyone who's made jewellery and manages to have some income from it.

[DiamondJeezeress]

Janet Coles Beads interview

[Tiggeryoubastard]

I did it as a sort of hobby 20 years ago, made some for gifts and orders from friends. Look on etsy. Trouble is, you'd never make enough to cover your time.