When I first began beading I had no idea where to get my"stuff", also known as findings. So I loaded up on everything and anything that looked interesting and soon I had way more supplies than I could or would ever want to use.
As a new beader you will see that there are so many different types of beading that you will probably want to try a few different projects to get a feel for what works for you. A good place to start is a bead kit because it has all the supplies needed for a specific piece of jewelry. In choosing your kit make sure the piece that you pick is something that you would actually wear. Not only should it be a practical project but it also allows you to showcase your work, which is always fun. Kits are a reasonably inexpensive way to begin making jewelry and will give time to decide whether making jewelry is really for you.
In North America bead kits are easy enough to find at Walmart or Michaels. If you don't have either of those resources, two amazing bead supplies sites that I recommend are:
Beadaholique.com http://www.beadaholique.com/
and Artbeads.come http://www.artbeads.com/
Both sites feature bead kits and are a jewelry designer's paradise, with everything you could ever want to bead with. They both ship all over the world. Prices vary so do your homework.
They have supplies ranging from inexpensive base metal findings and gemstone beads to sterling silver and gold filled findings.
Artbeads.com have low shipping rates, super prices, reduced pricing for higher volumes and no minimum orders.
Beadaholique has much the same as Artbeads but sell in small lots rather than individual beads and findings, they have fast shipping and sell wire by the foot which is good if you don't want to buy a full spool.
Between the two sites you should have all you need and should you chose to dive right in they even sell tools.
If you need higher quality gemstones, definitely more pricey but amazing quality, I suggest http://www.acutabove.etsy.com/
A*Cut*Above also have listings on ebay, I would suggest contacting them if you have any questions at all. Diane, the owner, has the best customer service ever. If you are a gemstone lover as I am, you will not be disappointed.
If you are interested in solid gold findings and wire, The Gem Bee on ebay is a good place to start:
Of course these are just suggestions, always double check for yourself because prices can change at any time... one last thing, none of these sources are in any way affiliated with me. I am a humble customer just like everyone else.
Coming soon, All about Findings...
D.
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