Are you ready to progress from pre-assembled kits to purchasing bulk jewelry-making supplies for your own designs? Shopping for supplies in bulk can be overwhelming. It’s easy to end up overpaying if you don’t know what you’re looking for or how to shop. We’re here to break it down for you, ensuring you get the most out of your beading supplies investment with these tips for those new to purchasing wholesale jewelry supplies.
Take Stock of Your Tools
Your jewelry making school or crafting kit may have supplied all of the jewelry making tools necessary to complete each project. However, once you branch out on your own, you’ll need to source the tools required to complete each task.
Plan Your Projects
Sketch or create a diagram of your designs, noting what components you’ll need, including product numbers. Keeping these diagrams on hand will help you easily recreate customer favorites later.
Consider Future Production
If you plan on making several of the same jewelry design, take stock of your future plans. Purchasing these jewelry supplies all at once will get you the best possible pricing, uncovering the quantity discount that will work best: 10 for $10, 20 for $15, etc. Purchasing a large order for multiple items, all at once, will also help you save on shipping. Whenever possible take the photos of jewelry you making to re make again of the popular selling items.
Make a Supply List
When it’s time to put your order together, make a supply list, including the product number and quantity of each jewelry supply you need. Research order quantity discounts. For instance, buying Shamballa beads wholesale typically offers significant savings over minimum or by-the-piece order quantities.
Watch Your Budget
Economize when you can. Have you chosen several gauges of wire when just a few would do? Could you purchase standard, frequently used supplies like sterling silver beads for jewelry making in quantity now, enjoying significant savings over time? Keep careful track of what you spend to accurately price your designs later, whether you use a simple spreadsheet or a special software program.
Find a Reputable Jewelry Supplies Wholesaler
The best suppliers will offer premium items such as crystal beads wholesaleat a quantity discount – not low-quality knockoffs. Purchasing from Wholesale jewelry suppliers is always more cost-effective than shopping at retail stores. When you compare online suppliers, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples to avoid buyer’s remorse. Don’t pick the first Amazon listing or Google shopping link you see. There are a lot of imposters out there.
Consider Quality Control
The best retailers have stringent quality control standards. They stand by the quality of their supplies and are knowledgeable about precise specs, such as gold and silver content and construction. Specifications will be clearly listed on each item, such as .925 sterling silver – not a “silver” color description lacking composition details. Trustworthy suppliers want to build relationships, serving you throughout your career.
Start your next beading adventure off on the right foot. Shop the wide selection of quality jewelry making supplies at Crystal Findings bead supply dealer today.
Shopping for gold beads and findings can be frustrating, especially for those new to jewelry making. How can you tell quality, lasting beads from those that will quickly tarnish and wear? “Gold jewelry” can mean any number of things. In this segment, we’ll break down the differences so you can be sure you’re getting what you pay for.
Why There’s a Big Difference in Cost Between Gold Jewelry
The term “gold” can mean a lot of things when you’re shopping for jewelry making supplies. Gold can be used to describe the color of beads as well as the composition. That’s why the makeup of gold beads should always be disclosed. Without this information, you have no idea what you’re getting.
Types of Gold Beads
Solid Gold Beads
You’d think 22 or 24 kt solid gold beads would be ideal. But despite the high value of solid gold beads, they may not be the best choice for lasting jewelry due to the softness of the metal. Other options offer a more practical alternative for everyday wear.
Gold-filled Beads
Gold-filled beads are a high-quality and lasting alternative to solid gold. They hold 100 times more gold than plated beads, with a gold alloy content of 5%, compared to 0.5% for plated beads. Using gold-filled beads, you can create today’s hottest jewelry trends without stressing about the cost. Far more affordable yet still valuable, gold-filled beads won’t tarnish or turn colors, or cause skin reactions in most people. Gold-filled beads are created by bonding a thick layer of 12 or 14 kt gold to another metal such as copper or brass or base metal. This layer is so thick most jewelry can be worn daily for up to 30 years without fading. Gold-filled jewelry is typically stamped with its gold content alongside the claps. (Beads are not stamped) Buying from Crystal Findings as shown in the website or in catalog, you do get Gold-Filled beads, findings or ready to wear gold-filled beaded jewelry.
Gold Plated Beads
Gold plated beads are inexpensively made by depositing a very thin layer of gold over less precious metals like steel ot similar economical metal alloys beads or findings. At 1/1000 to 3/1000 of an inch, this layer does not last long, leading gold-plated jewelry to fade and tarnish quickly. Skin reactions and staining can occur with some poorly constructed beads. Gold plated jewelry will not have a quality mark, only a brand name stamp, if any.
Which Type of Beads are Right for My Jewelry Making Project?
Crystal Findings offers an amazing selection of premium gold-filled beads and findings, including:
Plain, corrugated, twisted, and fancy round gold filled beads
Create luxurious, lasting jewelry without breaking the bank. Shop the wide selection of gold-filled beads at Crystal Findings. Contact us to place an order or to learn more about our wide selection of premium wholesale jewelry-making supplies today.
Gold beads are a jewelry-making staple, their classic, timeless good looks a favorite of buyers. However, it’s easy for jewelry designers and shoppers to fall victim to a “fool’s gold” scenario. Gold beads come in many incarnations, including gold plated, gold-filled, and solid gold designs. Distinguishing between these styles is essential to creating quality jewelry and protecting your reputation in the market.
Gold Filled Beads & Gold Plated Beads Are Not the Same
It’s essential to differentiate between gold filled beads and plated designs. Gold-filled beads feature a layer of gold bonded to another metal. They contain much more gold than a gold-plated bead of similar size and style. They hold their value well and maintain their beauty over time of decades, making them a cost-effective alternative to solid gold. Gold-filled beads resist the tarnishing and fading common in gold-plated alternatives. Using quality gold-filled beads over gold-plated options will increase your profits and uphold your reputation for creating quality jewelry.
Make Quality Beads a Hallmark of Your Design Standards
Like gold-filled beads, the same quality concerns should apply to sterling silver beads for jewelry making and Swarovski crystal beads. It is essential to find a reputable jewelry supplies wholesaler that carries quality beads and findings, like our sterling silver-filled beads and genuine Swarovski crystal beads and pendants. Access to a variety of beautiful, high-quality beads will help elevate your status as a leading jewelry designer.
Tips for Choosing the Right Beads for Your Jewelry Designs
Finding the right beads for your jewelry-making project is essential to its success, whether you’re looking to purchase sparkling semi-precious stone beads for a stunning new line or alphabet beads for fun youth jewelry. The materials you use make all the difference in positioning your jewelry as a lasting investment or a low-quality knock-off. Quality shows.
To identify quality gold-filled beads, look for 14K gold, which is made of 60% gold and 40% alloys like zinc, nickel, silver, and copper to prevent the beads from being too soft. Pure gold, identified by its 24K gold insignia, indicates pure gold, which though valuable, is too soft for daily wear and will not hold its quality. Beautiful, practical, lasting jewelry at an affordable price can be achieved with the right metal composition. Your ability to make the right choice will give you an edge in the market and build your reputation as a jewelry craftsperson.
Create quality, affordable jewelry that keeps customers coming back for more. Shop the extensive selection of wholesale beads and jewelry supplies at Crystal Findings today.
With any job, the right tools are essential to success. Without them, you’ll waste precious time scrambling to collect the tools you need, or resorting to time-consuming, quality-reducing workarounds. Though the tools you will need will depend, to some extent, on the type of jewelry you are making, there are several tools that will play an essential role in your beading tools and supplies kit.
Essential Jewelry Making Tools
These general beading tools play a pivotal role in every jewelry supply kit, from beginner to advanced:
Pliers
You will need a few different types of pliers when you begin your beading journey. These include:
Needle Nose/Chain Nose Pliers
These handy pliers are great for reaching into small spaces, as well as working with jump rings, crimping beads, and bending and managing many types of findings. Some have teeth, and some do not. Those with teeth grip better but may leave unwanted marks on your jewelry if you squeeze them too hard. Toothless models prevent this – but may send items sailing through the air given their limited gripping capacity.
Flat Nose Pliers
Flat nose pliers are ideal for pulling, providing better grip. The square edge profile also allows you to create sharp corners more easily. These are also available with/without teeth.
Bent Nose Pliers
These needle nose pliers feature a strongly bent front end that allows you to reach into a variety of places straight pliers cannot.
Round Nose Pliers
The smooth, rounded jaws of these pliers are great for making wire loops like jump rings or winding wire wrapping, providing a smooth curve, and preventing crimping.
Cutting Tools
A good pair of wire cutters and a good pair of scissors are essential, whether you are cutting wire, chain, string, or ribbons.
Adhesive
Good adhesive ensures your knots will stay put, safeguarding your beautiful design.
Tool or Tackle Box
Keep your tools organized, nearby, and at-the-ready with a tool, tackle, or cosmetics box.
Other Specialized Tools You Might Like to Include
These extra tools and accessories may also be helpful:
Specialty Pliers.
Crimping Pliers
These are shaped perfectly for crimping beads and tubes, so you don’t accidentally cut through threads and wires.
Tweezers
A pair of household tweezers can help you pick up beads, thread needles, tie knots, and pull threads.
Time to stock up for your upcoming project? Save time and money. Shop the wide variety of affordable beads and jewelry making supplies at CrystalFindings today.
Are you looking for a new and exciting craft to pass the time? After weeks of COVID-19 lockdowns, jewelry making has become a popular home hobby. Affordable and easy, handmade jewelry is a beautiful gift for people of all ages, brightening the day for those in your life feeling alone or out of touch. Fortunately, it doesn’t take a lot to begin this hobby. What do you need?
Jewelry Making Tools You Need to Get Started
Whether you prefer stringing beads or using beading wire, these beading tools are a must for making jewelry.
Wire cutters
Use these to cut stringing wire and eye/headpins.
Bead stoppers
To hold beads in place.
Flat nose pliers
For gripping wire.
Chain nose pliers
These specialized pliers allow you to grip wire without leaving a mark.
Round nose pliers
Used for creating loops and other round elements with beading wire.
Crimping tools
For securing clasps onto beading wire, and also for flattening/rounding crimp beads onto beading wire safely, without creating sharp edges.
String and Wire
The choice of bead wire often comes down to personal preference and style. Crystal Findings offers a number of styles to suit your needs, including:
Clear stretch magic elastic jewelry cord
Clear, stretchy, and strong, this is a great multifunctional solution. Stretch wires are available in clear color in three different thicknesses of 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm , and 1.0 mm
Tiger tail wire
Ideal for heavy weight beads such as stone. Tiger Tail wires and Acculon are available in 30′ , 100′, 300′, and 1000′ spools.
Soft flex beading wire
This coated wire is available in various sizes and colors. It is a great solution for crystal, stone beads, Swarovski pearls, and when creating illusion necklaces. SoftFlex comes in 10′, 30′, and 100′ spools (Most popular for our Crystal Findings beads)
Some crafters also use fishing line, normally available in 660′ spools
Wire size is based on gauge – the higher the number, the thinner the wire.
24, 26 gauge: for beads with small holes like pearls
21, 22 gauge: a versatile size that fits most beads
20 gauge wire: strong; good for making clasps
Choosing Your Beads
There are many different types of beads and findings used for beaded jewelry. You can purchase some of your favorites, creating your own personal style, look to YouTube and Google for design ideas, or simply shop clearance beads and findings, getting creative with your jewelry pieces and stretching your dollar. Some of our most popular choices include:
There are many paths you can take to begin your beading journey. Many start with trial and error; however, with the glut of YouTube tutorials and Pinterest posts out there, there’s no need to fly blind. Simply choose your preferred method of learning and immerse yourself in a project.
Add a little sparkle to your daily routine with jewelry making at home. Shop the affordable collection of jewelry making supplies at Crystal Findings today.
Have you fully-stocked your beading supplies to keep up with 2020s most exciting jewelry trends? This fashion-forward year is well underway, and bold, colorful designs are in the spotlight. Say goodbye to simple chains and warm up to these big statement pieces!
Stock Up So You Can Keep Up with these HUGELY Popular 2020 Jewelry Trends
Bold An Funky Hoops never go out of style, and this season’s hoops are big and bold, putting unique takes on funky classics with unexpected shapes and eccentric combinations. How will you personalize our sterling silver and gold-filled endless hoops?
Layered Pieces Simple, single strands are being crowded out by multiple layers of jewelry, such as layers of bold, chunky stone beads in different colors, or a few strands of multicolored metallics in different lengths.
Mix & Match Earrings Forget matchy-matchy designs. Mix and match earrings are where it’s at for 2020 if you want to stay ahead of the game. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes, such as studs and hoops, or mixed metals. Look to Adeam, who favored this style in her Fall 2019 collection for inspiration.
Beach-Inspired Both intricate and simple beach-inspired designs are also on trend this year, such as shimmering Swarovski starfish pendants and pearls, and dolphin, shell pendant or charm additions paired with bold colored or intricate designs.
Warm Gemstones Warm colored gemstones are taking over this year. Find the season’s hottest colors in shimmering Swarovski crystal pendants, flat back stones, and other gemstone beads in shades of champagne, gold, turmeric, citrine, orange, reds, and neutral chocolate browns. Pair this trend with others on this list, or create your own unique style, for a truly trendy look.
Pearls Classic pearls go beyond celebrity galas and formal events. This previously traditional look is undergoing a funky transformation in 2020, from simple strings to extravagant designs. Create your own with stunning Swarovski pearls, creating interesting hoops that extend to ear cuffs, or creating sophisticated, multilayered stacked designs using strings of different sizes. Move beyond classic colors, embracing vibrant variations or mixing pearls with gold.
Personalized Nameplates Hello 90s! Nameplates are back! Spell out your name, your story, zodiac sign, mood, life’s goals, showcasing them around your neck.
Chunky and Bold gold-filled Chains Like a flashback to Mr. T’s 80s persona, thick gold-filled chains are also back, making a retro statement around the neck or wrists. Don’t be afraid to go big with links. Such large, fun flair can really pull together even the most modest outfit.
2020 jewelry trends have a lot of inspiration to offer. Which ones are calling to you? Stock up for an exciting new decade of jewelry design. Shop our catalog of beautiful, affordable wholesale beads and supplies online at Crystal Findings today.
