Category

The Basics

19/10/2020
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5 ways to Thread Semi Precious Stones

Semi-Precious stones tend to be heavier than other beads, they also typically come with very small holes. This presents jewellery makers with a conundrum – ‘how do I choose a cord that will be both strong and thin?’ Choosing the correct thickness of cord is essential, but first you will need to identify the size of hole in your chosen beads. This will usually be written in the product description, but if you are unsure – a quick email to your bead supplier can always shine a light on anything... Read More

03/08/2020
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How To … Turn loop

The making of a turn loop can prove to be more difficult in reality than it is in theory. Using a pair of round nose pliers, follow the straightforward steps below to master the turn loop technique, which usually takes a little practice.  To control the length of your stem, position the wire on the thick area of the pliers; now bend the wire away from you to make a right angle. Step 1 Then trim the head pin, leaving approx 1 cm distance from the bend. Grip the pin... Read More

30/07/2020
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The Beginners Guide to Jewellery Findings…

Before the Basics… ‘Jewellery findings’ are the bare bones of any piece of jewellery. The term ‘findings’ is a collective way to describe any individual component that falls under this category. Jewellery findings are used to link, hold, or secure jewellery items together to create a complete piece of jewellery. Choosing which beads you like is often the easy part. Selecting the right findings, however, can be a difficult task for any beginner. So, here is a full guide to all your jewellery findings and what they can be used for to... Read More

16/07/2020
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Guide To Jewellery Making Tools for Beginners

If you are reading this for the first time chances are you have decided to embark on a new hobby. You have scanned the internet, created boards on Pinterest and drooled over handmade jewellery designs on Instagram. So many possibilities, so little time.    If this sounds familiar to you, then firstly – welcome to the exciting new world of jewellery making. We want to make your entrance as smooth as possible. Good news! It isn’t necessary to spend money on lots of fancy tools. Invest in good quality basics... Read More

11/02/2016

All you need to know about Jewellery Making Tools

If you have a creative mind, jewellery making can not only be a superb hobby, but it can also be a great stream of revenue; either on the side or as a full time job. Whilst many jewellery makers stick to creating pieces for their own persoal use, once you have become more experienced, you can pass them on as gifts, or to sell.   With all its benefits, jewellery making can be fun. However, as you start to try and experiment with more difficult pieces, it can become a... Read More

Kumihimo | Kumihimo Supplies | The Bead Shop 22/07/2015
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The Secret to Kumihimo Success

We are huge fans of Kumihimo braiding at The Bead Shop, but we know that it can look a little daunting to someone who is just starting out in jewellery making. Kumihimo braiding is a traditional Japanese technique that is continuing to grow in popularity, as more of us are creating or our custom pieces of jewellery.   You can make gorgeous Kumihimo jewellery with just a few simple supplies, that won’t cost you the earth. With this you can create beautiful necklaces, bracelets, anklets and more. If you’ve already... Read More

10/04/2013
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Opening a Jump Ring

Some jewellery-making techniques seem far more simple in theory than they are in practice, or vice versa. The opening and closing of a jump ring requires little explanation but if key steps are not followed carefully it can ruin the jump ring. Using a pair of flat nose pliers hold your jump ring steady so that the join is at the top. Now take another pair of flat nose pliers and twist the opposite side towards yourself. Please note: do not open these outwards as you will lose the shape and strength... Read More