A Quick Guide to Jewelry Making Supplies

Jewelry making is fast becoming the newest hobby, right after scrapbooking, and those looking to start are overwhelmed with all the supplies out there (just as I was when I first started). With only a few tools and a good instruction guide, a whole new world will open up and there will be no limits to what can be done.

The tools are simple enough. All one needs are pliers. But which types of pliers are good for the job? The folks at Delphi suggest this list of pliers that one should consider purchasing when starting wire wrapping jewelry:

Round Nose: Used to make loops. Both jaws are completely round and smooth.

Flat Nose: Use for professional looking bends and turns. Jaws are flat and smooth.

Chain Nose: This is an essential tool. Use to grip, tuck in and force wire through. Flat and smooth on the inside, curved on the outside.

Wire Looping: Conical jaw and matching trough make it easy to create smooth, circular loops.

Nylon Jaw: These pliers straighten wire, providing flawless smooth wire.

Bail Making: Makes the perfect bail for any pendant.

Now that you have the pliers, it is time to talk wire. A wire's gauge designates its thickness. The small the number the larger the wire. Wire comes in seven gauges from twelve (which is the thickest) to twenty-four (which is the thinnest). Wire can be expensive if buying either gold or silver and for those just starting out, there is "practice wire" which has the look of gold or silver, but is less expensive and a great tool for perfecting techniques before moving on to the higher quality.

You have the tools, now you need the book. The book that is the easiest to understand and to learn with is Making Bead & Wire Jewelry by Dawn Cook. An easy read. The instructions are simple enough to understand and the projects that are included are beautiful in their own right.

Now you are in the swing of things and are able to make jewelry with no problem. Now is the time to get those little things that make life easier for the jewelry maker and in the long run will save time and money. Those items included (Note: this is but a brief list and there are many, many more things at your local craft store that will help you enjoy jewelry making):

Mini Nippers: This precision tool is great for wire cutting. Its tapered head provides easy access in tight areas and a flush cut for smooth edges.

Wire Bending Jig: A time saver for repetitive shapes and multiple links.

Morton Twister: Helps create an easy way to twist thinner wires to create trim.

Now you are all set, enjoy the world of jewelry making and creating one of a kind items for personal use and gift giving.