Whether it’s because you saw an awesome craft idea or just want to have something fun to do, you’ve decided that you want to learn how to make your very own jewelry. However, you’re standing in the jewelry aisle at your craft store, and you’re puzzled. What is an eye pin? Do I really need to spend this amount of money on a pair of pliers – that I may or may not use? Which beads are the best ones for me?
Have no fear. If you’re interested in DIY jewelry but have no idea where to start, here are some tips to get you started.
Online craft tutorials are your best friend.
The best thing about the Internet is that you can find pretty much anything. The same thing goes with tutorials. You have a ton of ideas at your fingertips, and the best part is, they are all free.
Hands down the first place to check out is Youtube. What I like about it is that you can type in whatever you want to make, and within seconds, you have a step-by-step guide of someone doing the craft with you. This is awesome because you get to see what someone is doing, not just read it.
Another awesome site to check out is the Michaels Project Page. They have so many ideas, and give you a run-down on what exactly you need. What is great about this site is that they separate them based on difficulty. That way, you can know your skill level – something that is very important. After all, you don’t want to start doing something that is extremely difficult, only to get frustrated.
And, the best part? They have an app with a ton of different projects.
Lastly, check out Pinterest. Pinterest is a great place not only to get tutorials, but ideas. I don’t know about you all, but I spend a ton of time just looking at things I want, whether it may be a bracelet or a necklace. Why don’t you turn these wishes into reality? Google for a tutorial, and the next thing you know, it’s materialized into an actual physical object.
Take a class.
In the summer between sixth and seventh grade, I decided to take a beading class at my local Michaels. That class taught me a ton about how to make jewelry that actually didn’t look like you made it. It definitely helped me get started in making things, and had a ton of different tips. One downfall of these classes though is that they can be pretty pricey, which can be tricky when you’re on a budget.
Get ready to clip those coupons. . .
Let’s be honest, beading supplies are expensive. Depending on what you’re making, you have to get tools, beads to make the actual project, and string. That can rack up a major bil.
However, craft stores often come out with a ton of coupons. And, if you play your cards right, you can get them at a fraction of the price. For example, many of them offer 50 percent off of one regular priced item. So, that set of tools that was once $20 is no $10.
Furthermore, beads are often on sale for usually half off of more. And, on top of that, many craft stores often have coupons where you can get an extra percentage off of your total purchase. And, yes that includes sale items.
Get kits.
One of the best ways to get started is also to get DIY kits that are out there. And, these are not the bead sets that you got as a kid. You can make DIY layered necklaces, wire bracelets and so much more. What’s great about these kits is that you can get everything you need, and the instructions. Both of which are crucial.
Always cut strings longer than you’ll need.
Let’s say you’re making a stretch bracelet that is supposed to be seven inches. Therefore, you should cut at least an extra inch. That way, you’ll have some breathing room, and of course, room to tie knots. One piece of advice from my grandmother is that you an always cut off stuff, but you can never put it back.
Furthermore, if you’re making a gift for someone and you’re not sure their size, always go bigger. It’s always better for them to have extra room then it is to be too tight for them to fit.
Check out Etsy.
Etsy has the best craft supplies ever. Many of these beads are decently priced, and you get a wider selection than you would at the craft store. So, if there’s something specific that you’re looking for, whether it may be a certain charm or a specific color of beads, check out Etsy if your local craft store doesn’t have it.
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