Michael's and AC Moore Craft Stores

When you start designing jewelry all the materials you need can be overwhelming. When I first started designing; the internet wasn't around. In high school I stumbled across a book in a new age type bookstore that described how to bead your own necklaces and create your own jewelry items. I was intrigued. In fact I started stringing jewelry on silk and nylon with bead caps and glue. If you are a new designer you might not realize that this method--though good and used for most of jewelry making history--is unnecessary for most designs these days. These days you have the option to use a much sturdier form of stringing wire and crimps. This method is much easier for the beginner and the novice; and is more secure in many ways for many materials then the traditional method.

Nowadays you can find many basic directions for designing many types of jewelry. But, as a beginning designer you might not know exactly where to get everything you might need. One place I especially enjoy shopping for jewelry making supplies is Michael's Craft or AC Moore Craft Stores. Ever since Michael's and AC Moore introduced their jewelry making and beading section; they have increased their selection to include practically everything one would need to be an accomplished designer.

In addition Michael's an AC Moore both make efforts to change their beads and fashion materials on a seasonal basis. The colors and materials go along with what's seasonable and fashionable. Lately Michael's and AC Moore are both is trying to carry jewelry making materials to cater to higher end designers. Costume jewelry does not always require sterling silver or higher end metal findings. But, some designers want to create their items for longevity so Michael's and AC Moore have both begun to carry sterling silver and a higher level of gold plating on it's findings.

What Should the New Designer Expect to Pay; and Expect to Buy at Michael's?:

If you'd like to just learn to design jewelry and design a few practice pieces for yourself or a friend then I would bring about $40-$50. If you'd like to make enough designs to make some practice pieces and make some items for sale; then I would bring about $100-$150.

Basics To Buy:

Findings in Your Chosen Metal - Earwires, Jumprings, Sticks, Eyehole Sticks, Clasps for Lightweight and Heavyweight Necklaces, Split rings, Crimps

Beads - Choose what you like!

Tools - A 3-4 piece set of jewelry pliers including flat, round nose, and clippers.

You can also purchase pendants and fancy findings and metal spacer beads that you feel compliment the jewelry you want to make. That is up to you and your budget.