As a jewelry-maker, I have often been asked what someone needs to get started. The following describes what tools are needed to start a craft that can be simple or intricate.

Pliers

Generally speaking, these are specialty pliers available at a craft store for around $6. However, in a pinch, the pliers in a home toolbox could work. The problem is they are heavy and not suitable for detail work. Chain-nose pliers are the most common but they can leave marks on the piece. Flat-nose pliers do not unless they have been scratched.

Crimping Pliers

These are specialty pliers for finishing necklaces and bracelets. There are two slots in the jaws. The one closest to the handle is for flattening the crimp bead into a crescent shape. The second slot is to further flatten the crescent in on itself, giving a stronger hold for the finished piece.

Scissors or Wire Cutters

Small scissors are good for cutting thread and lightweight wire. However, with the better wires, there is a risk of ruining the scissors by using them on the wire. Wire cutters can also be found at the craft store. Nippers are a similar tool to the wire cutters. These look a lot like crimping pliers, but the jaws are blades. They cut wire very easily, so be ready to cut before placing the nippers on the wire. Do not use these on memory wire as this kind of wire can nick the nippers.

Glue

There are two main types of glue needed. The first is E6000. This glue has some fumes to it, so be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area. Another glue is any kind that will hold pin backs, gems, or beads in place. It can also be used to dab on knots to keep them from slipping. Clear fingernail polish is also good for this if glue isn’t available. In the beginning, regular school glue might be able to be used, but if a piece is to hold, one of the other glues would be a better choice.

Wire

There is a caution here: Do not buy the craft wire that is available in department and craft stores. It is for decorative purposes and not suitable for “stringing” – holding the beads for necklaces and bracelets. Tiger tail is good for practice. There are better wires available from companies such as Beadalon, SoftFlex, and Acculon.

Crimp Beads

These are small hollow beads used to finish pieces. They can be mashed flat with a pair of flat- or chain-nose pliers or closed using crimping pliers, which will give a stronger hold.

Beads

There are a wide variety of beads to use. Plastic, wood, glass, gemstone, and shell are just a few. Stone chips are also available. The hole in the bead must be large enough for the wire, which is sometimes a problem with the stone chips.

Ear Wires

These are for earring designs. As with other findings, there are several varieties available. Posts, kidney wires, and French wires are a few of the more popular ones.

Clasps

Consider the overall look of the piece when choosing a clasp. Toggle clasps are common. A bar fits through a loop and the weight of the piece keeps it closed. Some other clasps are barrel, s-hook, fishhook, lobster claw, and spring rings.

It is possible to get started making necklaces and bracelets for a relatively small investment of about $30-50 or more, depending on the supplies and beads chosen.