Finding A Source Of Beads Jewelry Supplies 101

By Author: Jaimes Watts
Total Articles: 38
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If you go online and search for beads, jewelry supplies pop up everywhere. It can be overwhelming if you have never purchased beads before. You can find items that are already complete, partially completed, kits, single beads, and sets. What you pick will depend very much on what you want to make, how much experience you have, and what you can afford to spend.

Cheap Beads

There are several ways to get beads for less. One way is to purchase in bulk; the more you get the better the per bead price. Another method is to buy inexpensive beads. These beads don’t usually have any of the panache of the more expensive beads, but for someone with a lot of creativity or a desire to make less pricey items, these are perfect.

You can also look for mixed lots. Often, these are leftovers or beads that didn’t quite match others in a set and are sold for considerably less than a complete strand. Of course, if you are the creative sort and want to work in polymer clay or paper, you can make your own beads, and they are sure to be well priced as well as unique.

Moderately Priced Beads

Move up a bit ...
... in quality and embellishments and you can find many beads in this category. Here, you will find beads that are more than simple glass crystals or molded plastics. These beads are often made from semi precious stones, pearls, and mass manufactured artsy beads.

While you aren’t too likely to find things like dichroic glass or lamp work beads, these beads are usually quite lovely and rather affordable. One way to increase your buying power in this price range is to look at bead clearance items. It may take a bit more effort to find something you need, but the savings make the work worth while.

The “oooh” Factor Beads

These are the beads that aren’t priced by the strand or packet; these bad boys are priced per bead. Don’t be surprised to find a single bead going for $5, $10 or even $20. Here, you find things such as silver Bali beads, Hill Tribe stamped silver beads, rarer gemstone beads, exotic dichroic pendants, amazingly intricate lamp work beads, and more.

For the less experienced jewelry maker, it is usually best to start with something simpler and accessorize it with one or two expensive beads. Over time, skills improve and it becomes worth while investing in the most expensive beads. jewelry supplies, of course, extend far beyond just beads into wires, tools, clasps, and much more, but that is for another day.

To know more about jewelry making visit design jewelry.