I Want to Start Beading — What Do I Need?
Anyone new to the hobby of beading may be a little intimidated by what they need to start beading. I wanted to create a quick list of "must have" items as well as optional supplies that you can pick up once you've decided beading is for you. Beads are obvious, and you will likely have no problem picking those out — these are the "basics" that you might not think about!
Beading Wire - it doesn't look like wire per se, but it's several very thin strands of wire wrapped together into one. I recommend a small spool (30 foot) to start — this will make about forty 7.5 inch bracelets, or sixteen 18 inch necklaces. Try Beadalon, Accuflex or Softflex brands in 19- or 21-strand, .015 weight to start.
Crimps - crimp beads or tubes are essential if you are using beading wire. Sterling silver crimps will hold better than plated or base metal, and your jewelry is less likely to fall apart. Look for 2x1or 2x2 size.
Clasps - you pick the style of clasps you prefer — toggle, lobster, spring ring etc., Sterling is nice, but to start out you might want to use base metal or pewter unless you have allergy issues.
Jump rings - open and soldered (or split rings) these are essential for adding length to bracelets or necklaces or for joining components. Sterling are best, but to start you can use base metal or plated if you don't have allergies to those metals.
Stretch Magic - if you are making stretchy bracelets instead of bracelets with a clasp, skip the above supplies and just get the clear elastic stretchy string branded Stretch Magic. It's easy to use, and I find it holds up nicely. Best basic starter size is .7mm.
Tools - to start out, you only need a needle nosed pliers (steal one from the toolbox) and a household fingernail clipper. The pliers will be used to smash crimp beads and to pull wire back through beads to secure it, and the nail clipper can be used to cut beading wire and Stretch Magic. When you find you are hooked on beading and you want a more professional finish, purchase a crimping pliers (Michael's or Hobby Lobby has them for under $15) and a nice side cutting pliers, which will get you by for a long time. Once you are making dangles or earrings, you'll also want a round-nosed pliers in addition to your initial pliers.
That's it!
