re: Which Jewelry Findings Are Essential for Learning How to Bead?

Cherry Stephens — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 14:36:44 GMT

I also agree that the highest quality findings should be used when making jewelry, however I have stopped using sterling crimps except when I plan to leave the crimps exposed. For me the process of design seems to requires revisions, so I found I was taking apart crimped portions of my designs and I couldn't salvage the bits of sterling to recycle. That was wasting precious metal and adding to the cost of my projects. So now I use plated or high quality base metal crimps and sterling crimp covers. Every little bit saved can go toward other design components.

re: Which Jewelry Findings Are Essential for Learning How to Bead?

Barbara Bellatti — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 20:53:50 GMT

I am in total agreement on using quality findings, they reallly make the piece looked polished. One of the newer findings I really love are the wire guardians. I especially like them for bracelets, since they really protect the wire from wear and tear. I have lost several bracelets because the wire broke from consant rubbing where it is atached to the clasp. And......if you have a really spectacular clasp, make sure it is featured in your design. Some of my fav. bracelets (can you tell I like bracelets) are designed arround a fabulous clasp. I am looking for a shibiuchi clasp to build a bracelt arround, and can't wait to make it, when I find it.