Rose Quartz and Serenity are Pantone’s color of the year winners. And for the first time they debuted a duo-color that blurs the line of femininity and masculinity.

We will show how we used these colors to inspire our Color of the Year Jewelry.

Link Earrings

Made with blue foil tint beads and a hint of pink, these earrings pairs the two colors harmoniously.

Necklace

Rose Quartz
Draped with a shiny tassel and beaded chain, this Rose Quartz necklace is the perfect statement piece to wear this spring. Can you imagine wearing it with your sweet summer dress and suede floppy hat?

Serenity
This dream catcher necklace has the right Serenity hues for 2016. Made with handmade silk ribbon, Czech glass chip beads and feather charms, you can pair this with your trending flannel outfit and skinny jeans.

Bracelets

Wire Wrap
This wire wrap bracelet combines a darker shade of Serenity and square pink crystals. Accented with silver bali beads, string these colors onto memory wire for a three-loop bracelet with a simple loop on each end. This fun and easy Color of the Year-inspired memory wire bracelet is ready to flaunt.

Leather cord
When it comes to transcending gender barriers, leather is best to use to create an accessory that both men and women can casually wear. Using the same darker Serenity color as in the bracelet above, we used red aventurine beads on 1mm leather cords. We cut the 1mm cords into three equal strands. Taking the three strands, crimp one end with a revolving crimp tubes. Insert a bead on your top two strands and then the next bead will be on your bottom two strands. Repeat until desired length. Cut the three strand ends straight and crimp them with another revolving crimp tube. Add your choice of clasp and it is ready to wear.

How will you wear this year’s colors of the year?

Link Earrings

• (2) Z007149 – 30mm Antique Silver Hammered Round Pewter Link
• (1) A008998 – Silver Base Metal French Wire Earrings
• (2) A002413 – 4mm Silver Plated Jump Ring
• (2) A001493 – 2 Inch Silver Plated Headpins
• (2) A003564 – 6mm Bali Spacer
• (2) Z014750 – 17mm Light Blue and Silver Foil Rectangle
• (2) GS00215 – 4mm Round Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz Necklace

• (1) GS00221 – Oval Rose Quartz
• (1) Z007727 – 2.5 Inch Rhodium Plated Tassel
• (1) A001529 – 6mm Silver Plated Jump Ring
• (2) CH00004 – 4mm Silver-Plated Link Fire Polished Pink Bead Chain
• (1) A019633 – 3 Inch Eyepin

Serenity Necklace

• (1) A017782 – Moody Blues Hand Dyed Silk Ribbon
• (1) Z006771 – 26mm Antique Silver Filigree Washer Pewter Link
• (3) A019629 – 1 Inch Silver Plated Eyepin
• (3) A020394 – Matte Blue Mix Czech Glass Chip
• (1) TC00040 – 29mm Feather Charm
• (2) TC00041 – 23mm Feather Charm

Wire Wrap Bracelet

• WR00120 – Large Silver Memory Wire
• A016464 – 6mm Faceted Cube Pink Glass
• GS00517 – 8mm Blueberry Quartz Gemstone
• A003563 – 6mm Bali Spacer
• A021452 – 18mm Silver Plated Bali Ornate Oval Tube
• A021434 – 12mm Silver Plated Bali Deep Fluted Round

Leather Bracelet

• (1) A020113 – 1mm Red Brown Leather
• (1) A003578 – 8mm Simple Round Toggle Clasp
• (2) A014995 – 4mm Antique Revolving Crimp tubes
• (2) A002413 – 4mm Jump Rings
• (2) A021435 – 8mm Bali Fancy Fluted Rondelle
• (6) GS00505 – 8mm Red Aventurine Gemstone Round Large Hole
• (6) GS00517 – 8mm Blueberry Quartz Gemstone

by Kristal Wick

One of the easiest “go-to” designs I have found is a multi-strand necklace or bracelet. WHAT? You say these look soooooooo difficult? Not true! Once you master the multi-strand, you’ll be hooked! I like to start by making piles of my fave components; for example, sitting in my studio on a chilly (16 degrees below zero) January day in Minnesota, I CRAVED a splash of beach so I grabbed some TierraCast® dolphins and seashells, beautiful blue Swarovski Tahitian pearls and crystals and frosted seed beads to give the piece a sea glass effect. Use three different colors of beading wire with one exposed to add an additional dimension to the necklace. It’s trendy these days to mix metals so I threw in copper components to reflect the shades of glistening sand and a bit of silver to represent the crest of the waves breaking up on shore. Whether you’re physically on a beach or visiting one in your mind, I hope this seashore delight will help you get through this long winter! Use three colors of beading wire – one color exposed – to add an additional dimension to the necklace.

Multi-Strand Blue Necklace

(1) A005473 – Soft Flex TRIOS Beading Wire – Tranquility

(10) FTCT0001 – 2mm Sterling Silver Crimp Tube Beads

(10) Z008729 – 4mm Antique Copper Plate Crimp Bead Covers

(1) TC00690 – 22mm Antique Copper Vine Hook & Eye Clasp Set by TierraCast

(1) CH00018 – 3.4mm Antique Silver Plated Double Cable Chain (Sample shown uses 2 pieces of 2’ chain)

(2) TC01253 – 2 Inch Silver 21 Gauge Eyepin by TierraCast

(2) TC00001 – 6mm Copper Oval Jump Ring by TierraCast

(2) TC00545 – 4mm Antique Copper Beaded Bead Cap by TierraCast

(2) SW00839 – Swarovski® 6mm Indicolite Round Mini Bead Style #5052

(2) TC00304 – 9mm Antique Silver Spiral Cone Bead Cap by TierraCast

Strand 1

(1) SB00367 11-9263 – Lined Light Seafoam AB Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(1) SB01996 LDP-1F – Matte Transparent Silver Lined Crystal Long Drop Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(6) TC00314 – 11mm Antique Silver Diamond Bead Frame by TierraCast

(6) SW00839 – Swarovski® 6mm Indicolite Round Mini Bead Style #5052

Strand 2

(10) FTCT0001 – 2mm Sterling Silver Crimp Tube Beads

(10) Z008729 – 4mm Antique Copper Plate Crimp Bead Covers

(10) TC01116 – 4mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer by TierraCast

(10) TC00018 – 3mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer by TierraCast

(5) SW00680 – 12mm Tahitian Swarovski Pearl

Strand 3

(1) SB00486 6-9149S – Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(8) TC01150 – 9mm Antique Copper Small Shell Bead by TierraCast

(32) TC00632 – 4mm Antique Copper Scalloped Bead Cap by TierraCast

(16) SW00512 – Swarovski® 6mm Bicone Crystal Denim Blue AB2X Style #5328

(4) TC00001 – 6mm Copper Oval Jump Ring by TierraCast

(4) TC00066 – 16mm Antique Silver Dolphin Charm by TierraCast

(4) TC00113 – 14mm Antique Silver Small Spindle Shell Charm by TierraCast

Strand 4

(1) SB01832 DB1847F – 11/0 Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads Tube

(26) SW00779 – 3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl

(1) SB00483 6-9148FR – Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(10) TC00545 – 4mm Antique Copper Beaded Bead Cap by TierraCast

(5) SW01150 – Swarovski® Crystal 14mm Aquamarine Emerald Cut Bead – Style 5515

Strand 5

(1) SB00485 6-9148 – Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(1) SB00041 8-9234 – Sparkle Metallic Gold Lined Crystal Miyuki Seed Beads Tube

(1) A018807 – 8mm Baby Blue Czech Faceted Rondelle Glass Beads

Multi-Strand Blue Necklace Steps

1. Cut five 16 inch pieces of beading wire (various colors).
2. Crimp one end of the wire leaving a small loop.
   
3. String the following onto strand #1:
   Three Lined Light Seafoam AB Miyuki Seed Beads
   Seven Matte Transparent Silver Lined Crystal Long Drop Miyuki Seed Beads
   Antique Silver Diamond Bead Frame
   Indicolite Round Mini Bead
   Series: 20 Matte Transparent Silver Lined Crystal Long Drop Miyuki Seed Beads
   Antique Silver Diamond Bead Frame
   Indicolite Round Mini Bead
   Repeat the series four more times and add the following:
   Seven Matte Transparent Silver Lined Crystal Long Drop Miyuki Seed Beads
   Three Lined Light Seafoam AB Miyuki Seed Beads
4. Crimp beading wire end leaving a small loop.
5. Add Copper Oval Jump Rings to the four dolphin charms
6. Crimp one end of the wire leaving a small loop and string the following onto strand #2:
7. Slide the following series onto the beading wire:
   Series: Crimp tube
   3mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer
   4mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer
   12mm Tahitian Swarovski Pearl
   4mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer
   3mm Antique Silver Beaded Heishi Spacer
   Crimp tube
8. Lay this strand down next to Strand # 1 and space the pearl series in the center of the first 20 Matte Transparent Silver Lined Crystal Long Drop Miyuki Seed Bead series and crimp on either side of the pearl series.
9. Gently squeeze the crimp covers over the crimps.
10. Add the series again and crimp about an inch down the beading wire. Repeat steps 8–10 for the remaining three pearl series.
    NOTE: Before doing the final crimp on each strand, make sure they all end up the same length. Adjust the number of beads on each strand to ensure this.
11. Crimp beading wire end leaving a small loop.
12. Crimp one end of the wire leaving a small loop and string the following onto strand #3:
    Three Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Beads
    Series: Antique Copper Scalloped Bead Cap
    Bicone Crystal Denim Blue AB2X
    Antique Copper Scalloped Bead Cap
    Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    Antique Silver Small Spindle Shell Charm
    Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    Antique Copper Scalloped Bead Cap
    Bicone Crystal Denim Blue AB2X
    Antique Copper Scalloped Bead Cap
    Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    Antique Copper Small Shell Bead
    Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    Repeat the series seven more times alternating the Dolphin charms and Spindle Shell charms, then add two Silver Lined Capri Blue Miyuki Seed Beads.
13. Crimp beading wire end leaving a small loop.
14. Crimp one end of the wire leaving a small loop and string the following onto strand #4:
    Two Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Series: Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    4mm Antique Copper Beaded Bead Cap by TierraCast
    Swarovski® Crystal 14mm Aquamarine Emerald Cut Bead
    4mm Antique Copper Beaded Bead Cap by TierraCast
15. Repeat the series four more times then add the following:
    Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Bead
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Five Matte Dark Seafoam Delica Duracoat Galvanized Seed Beads
    3mm Crystal Jade Swarovski Pearl
    Two Matte Transparent Light Blue Miyuki Seed Beads
16. Crimp beading wire end leaving a small loop as in Step #2.
17. Crimp one end of the wire leaving a small loop and string the following onto strand #5:
    Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Bead
    Series: 8mm Baby Blue Czech Faceted Rondelle Glass Bead
    Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Bead
    Sparkle Metallic Gold Lined Crystal Miyuki Seed Bead
    Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Bead
    Sparkle Metallic Gold Lined Crystal Miyuki Seed Bead
    Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Bead
18. Repeat this series 17 more times. Add a Transparent Aqua Miyuki Seed Bead and then crimp beading wire end leaving a small loop.
19. Open eyepin, insert one end loop of all five strands and close the eye pin. Repeat for the other necklace end.
20. Slide on Antique Silver Spiral Cone Bead Cap, Swarovski® 6mm Indicolite Round Mini Bead, Antique Copper Beaded Bead Cap and make a simple loop on the end. Repeat for the other necklace end.
    
21. Add desired chain length (the sample shown uses 2-¼”) to simple loop.
22. Using a jump ring, add the toggle to the other end of the chain. Repeat steps 20-21 for the other necklace end.

Leather wrap bracelets is a trending favorite to spice up a boho outfit or rock out to a head-banging concert or add to a casual outing with your girlfriends. Wrap bracelets are a must-have for 2016. We will show you how to make wrap bracelets with illustrated tutorial that you can download.

They may look difficult to make, but after a few attempts, they are honestly easy to make. We will show you a tutorial on how to make these bracelets using one-hole beads and super duo beads, as well as a few tips and tricks to help you make these wrap bracelets.

The basic components you need for these bracelets are:

1. Button findings: which will act as your clasp. Button Ends will work well, also.
2. Leather or cotton round cord: these could range from 1mm to 2mm or larger, depending your preference and on the size of beads you are going to use. The length of cord needed for your bracelet will be determined below.
3. Thread: you can match the thread to your leather cord to hide the look or to add color. Check out some Beading Thread options but keep in mind that you will need a thin enough thread to go through the hole of your beads twice.
4. Beading Needle: size will be according to your thread and bead’s hole size.
5. Adhesive: Hypo-Cement with precision tip, is a good choice to glue thread ends or any fast-drying glue will do.
6. Beads: use your preference of beads or seed beads. Have enough if you plan to have a multi-wrap bracelet.

Determine leather length needed for a wrap bracelet

Use this method to determine the leather cord length you may need for a multi-wrap bracelet.

Take your wrist length and double the length. Multiply that by the number of wraps you want and then add 12”. That will give you an approximate cord length you will need to start your bracelet. (The extra 12” factors in the button knot, end knot(s) and bead size.)

Example:

2 wraps for an 8.5” bracelet: (8.5” x2) x 2 wraps = 34 + 12 = 46” needed.

Or

4 wraps for a 7.5” bracelet: (7.5” x2) x 4 wraps = 60 + 12 = 72” needed.

Keep in mind, these total numbers are approximate. You will want to test the wrap length while you’re making your bracelet. Having extra length is better than being short on your wrapped length goal.

Basic Leather Wrap Bracelet Tutorial

The basic weaving of the thread will be going under the leather cords and then coming over leather cords.

Click HERE to View and Download an illustrated PDF tutorial on how to make these Wrap Bracelets. You can also save/download this pdf file.

Czech SuperDuo Leather Wrap Bracelet Tutorial

With Czech SuperDuo seed beads, you will be layering the bead holes to create a layer sequence. Below is a tutorial on how to make this SuperDuo wrap around bracelet.

Click HERE to View and Download the SuperDuo bead wrap bracelet PDF tutorial and to download illustrated pdf tutorial.

Example Wrap Bracelets

Here are some of our inspired wrap bracelets.

This is a simple one-wrap bracelet. Think about using a different thread color than your leather cord color for a mix of colors.

Use more than one bead on each layer for more embellishment options.

Make a bracelet with multiple combinations of beads to create a fun layered look.

These SuperDuo beads look like tiny stone pebbles, don’t you think? Try a SuperDuo mix set for a colorful bracelet or create a zigzag pattern. What will you try?

Other Tips

How to add on additional thread: Tie thread to closest leather cord and glue with Hypo Cement or fast-drying glue. Cut off excess. Tie new thread to leather cord, glue knot and continue.

How to hold leather strands: An alternative to holding the leather strands, for stability when adding beads, is to clamp the button to a clipboard.

How to straighten leather cords: While you are stringing on beads, adjust previous beads with fingers to straighten out leather cords. Or when you have reached your desired bracelet length, lay the bracelet down and run your hand across your bracelet. This will help to smoothen and straighten your leather cords.

How to tighten threads/bead layers: If you find that your thread does not keep your bead(s) sandwiched in place or the bead sits loosely, sew up and under the cords and through the bead again. Over and down through the bead. Sewing through the bead twice on the leather cords will give your beads a tighter hold.

Tighten leather knots: If your leather cord knots are loosening, add a small dab of fast-drying glue or Hypo-Cement to knot(s) for tighter holds.

How to make an adjustable bracelet: Make additional knotted ends for an adjustable bracelet.

Single Wrap Bracelet

• (1) Z005069 – 2mm Emerald Green Leather Cord
• TCZ0194 – 17mm Flower Button
• A006596 – Brown Beading Thread
• GS00490 –6mm Blue Dyed Impression Jasper
• A018854 – Gold Eye Beading Needles

Faceted and Gold Nugget wrap bracelet

• (1) A020532 – 1mm White Leather Cord
• BT00038 – 12.5mm Gold Circles Button
• A020510 – 4mm Gold Hematite Rondelle Bead
• GS00414 – 6mm Faceted Blue, Red & Brown Tiger Eye Gemstone
• A006587 – 6lb Crystal Fireline Thread
• A018854 – Gold Eye Beading Needles

Pink and Pearl Wrap Bracelet

• TC01262 – 15mm Brass Round Radiant Button
• A016808 – 8mm Pink AB Round Chinese Crystal Glass
• PR00284 – 8mm Preciosa Round Cream Rose Pearl
• Z001553 – 8mm Czech Fire Polish Shiny Gold Beads
• A019038 – 2mm Dark Pink Economy Leather Cord
• A006587 – 6lb Crystal Fireline Thread
• A018854 – Gold Eye Beading Needles

Arianna Caribe SuperDuo Wrap Bracelet

• (1) A020113 – 1mm Natural Red Brown Leather Cord
• TC01263 – 15mm Antique Pewter Round Radiant Button
• SB02239 – Turquoise Blue Picasso Super Duo
• A006596 – Brown Beading Thread
• A018854 – Gold Eye Beading Needles

Happy January Birthdays! Being the first birthstone of the year, January’s garnet, also know as the “Gem of Faith,” derived its name from the Latin word Granatum or pomegranate, because it resembles a dark red fruit. While garnet is a rich red hue, it “signifies power, victory, truth, purity, faith, and protection,” (BirthstoneZodiac) as well as life, happiness and strength.

Swarovski® defines January birthstones with garnet and siam crystals. We have four simple jewelry projects to start your new year! Wear garnet or siam this year whether it is for showcasing your birthstone color or to showcase this vibrant red color.

January Crystal Earrings

This pair of earrings is made with TierraCast® bezel charm that uses Swarovski® crystals. Simply open up your sterling silver ear wire loop and slip these glimmering charms on. Because these charms are 18mm, they are the perfect statement earrings for January 2016!

January Bangle Bracelet

The fun thing about these expandable bracelets is that you can add any of your favorite charms. Add your garnet crystal charm and your favorite charms for this easy to do and wear popular expandable bracelet.

Red Golden Dagger Necklace

For this necklace, we paired sharp red dagger Czech beads with copper/gold-tone beads. Take some 22 gauge artistic wire and make a full loop. Before you finish it with a coiled wrap, insert your gold chain. Finish your loop with a wrapped coil. Insert your beads alternating between the dagger beads and copper/gold beads. Make another wrap loop at the other end while adding another piece of your gold chain. Bend your beaded wire piece to create a slight curve. Add your lobster clasp to one end of your chain and a jump ring to the other.

2-in-1 Necklace and Bracelet

We used Chinese crystal beads, brass bali beads, seed beads and Czech O beads to create this simple elastic-strung jewelry piece that doubles as a wrap around bracelet or necklace. Create this fun sequential design as long as you want for an everlasting jewelry piece you can wear year round.

Sources: Birthstone Zodiac: January Birthstone – Garnet. http://www.birthstonezodiac.com/birthstones/january-birthstone/

January Crystal Earrings

• (2) TC02118 – 18mm Siam Crystal Charm
• (1 pair) FTEA0003 – Sterling Silver Earrings

January Bangle Bracelet

• (1) TC02103 – 16mm Siam Crystal Charm
• (1) A021132 – Silver Plated expandable Bracelet
• (1) TC01969 – 16.6mm Letter M Alphabet Charm
• (1) TC00141 – 22mm Key Charm
• (1) A011729 – Small Anchor Charm
• (5) A002413 – 4mm Jump Ring

Red/Golden Dagger Necklace

• AW00028 – 22 Gauge Natural Artistic Wire
• (2) CH00721 – 2mm Petite Cable Chain with Soldered Links
• (2) A011517 – 5mm Gold Plated Jump Ring
• (1) A011537 – 10mm Gold Lobster Clasp
• (7) A010294 – 12mm Siam Glass Dagger Bead
• (6) A020510 – 4mm Gold Hematite Rondelle

2-in-1 Necklace and Bracelet

• (1) A002290 – .7mm Stretch Magic Elastic Cord
• (49) A016781 – Light Siam Chinese Crystal Glass
• (7) A004246 – Silver Brass Plated Bali Style
• (84) SB02042 – Czech O Beads
• (140+) SB00066 – Size 8/0 Black Miyuki Seed Bead

Cold connection is a unique metal technique that connects metal components without the use of heat. While you can connect metal pieces by glue or other adhesive, we will demonstrate some basic steps on how to use rivets with leather.

You will find many cold connection and riveting techniques in steampunk jewelry and metalworking. Once you have the basic tools and components for metal working and rivets, you will find how easy this versatile skill can be used for jewelry making.

Rivet Leather (Part One)

For this project, we are using TierraCast® Rivets to show how to rivet on leather. When riveting on leather, use a two-part compression rivet, which will have a bottom and cap piece. Two-part compression rivets are best for leather, as they will create a tighter hold if you are adding embellishments with the rivets.

Tools Needed for Leather Riveting:
Steel Hammer, Bench Block, Leather Hole Punch Pliers, and TierraCast® Rivet Setter.

Rivet Leather (Part Two)

Make leather loop for jump rings, clasps, or joining components together. Create this wrap-around leather watch by using these two part compression rivets. Cut two 12” 5mm flat leather. Make leather loops on all four ends. Attach your clasps and watch face for a fun wrap-around leather watch.

Leather Bracelet

• (1) TC02030 – Breathe Link
• (1) Z003952 – Brass Magnetic Clasp
• (7) CH00259 – 10mm Burnt Orange Flat Leather
• (1) TC01450 – 4mm Brass Rivet
• A015821 – Super New Glue

Wrap-Around Leather Watch

• (1) Z001647 – Gold Watch Face
• (4) TC01450 – 4mm Brass Rivet
• (1) A019947 – Antique Brass Magnetic Clasp
• (2) Z011513 – 5mm Brass Jump Ring
• (24) CH00043 – 5mm Tan/Black Flat Leather

As the clock starts ticking down the hours, minutes and seconds to finish off 2015 and chime into 2016, did you make any last minute New Year’s resolution? Making New Year’s resolutions are easy but the hardest part is the commitment. Resolution bracelets are the perfect accessory companions to help you stick to your 2016 plans. Here are some inspiring resolution bracelets that we’ve made showcasing metal stamping. Check out our previous blog post on how to get started with metal stamping, to learn how to make this popular personalized jewelry.

Quoted Stamped Bangle

Quotes are words of encouragement. We have quoted Ghandi on this bangle with, “The future depends on what you do today.” What is your favorite quote?

To make this bangle, start out with a Z005837 copper stamping blank. Take some Sanding Sponges like TL00154 and sand down the edges and corners of the stamping blank. Once you have smoothed them down, lightly pencil your quote on the stamping blank, keep in mind the size of the letter stamps you intend to use. Space words evenly to fit the whole quote. Stamp your quote. Use a black permanent market or Stamp Enamel to fill in your letters. Wipe and shine your stamping blank with a polishing cloth. This will also help rub off the light pencil marks. Use a Bending Bar to curve your bangle and Bending Pliers to help shape the bangle.

Items Used:

• (1) Z005837 – 1/4×6 Inch Rectangle Copper Stamping Blank
• A010615 – Lower Case Jeanie Metal Letters Stamping Set

Picture Jasper Charm Bracelet

Picture Jasper is about peace and relaxation. It’s why we included some Picture Jasper dangle charms in this bracelet to help calm your mind and soul for 2016. We’ve also added a few Chinese crystal dangle charms for added sparkle. We’ve used metal blanks and stamped words to help encourage the mind and soul to “take chances” and “be patient,” as wells as to just “breathe,” “heal” and to “laugh more” in the New Year.

Items used:

• (1) Z001016 – 10mm Silver Cable Chain
• (5) A008547 – 8mm Black Diamond Rondelle Chinese Crystal
• (7) GS00406 – 4mm Round Picture Jasper
• (12) A001493 – 2 Inch Silver Headpins
• (5) A019452 – ¾ Inch Pewter Stamping Blank
• (6) A001529 – 6mm Silver Jump Ring
• (1) Z005822 – 16mm Swivel Lobster Clasp
• TL00191 – 3mm Upper Case Bridgette Metal Letters

Focus Wrapped Bracelet

We love the versatility of this wrapped bracelet. We cut a piece of our Lycra cord in half and pulled/stretched it until it curled sideways, providing a soft yet strong, stretchy bracelet base. Thread the lycra cord through both sides of the metal blank we have stamped “Focus” on. Tie it according to the example we have below and wrap around your bracelet three times for a versatile look.

This bracelet is perfect to wrap around your wrist for a morning jog to “focus” on a healthy goal. Or wear this bracelet while studying your next school exam, so you can “focus” on getting that A+! Focus on the goal and you shall succeed!

Items Used:

• (1) A021495 – 1.375 Inch Oval Pewter Stamping Blank
• (1) A017779 – 30mm Yellowish Paisley Italian Lycra Cord
• TL00191 – 3mm Upper Case Bridgette Metal Letters

Who doesn’t love ringing in the New Year? You may find yourself at a rooftop party, celebrating New Year’s Eve with cheerful faces, sparkling fireworks, glittering streamers, plastic party hats, bubbly beverages, and midnight kisses! Whether you are dancing the night away or making a toast, we have the perfect earrings, made with Swarovski® crystals, to help ring in the New Year! PLUS, learn how to wire wrap Briolette Beads!

Pendulum Posh

Make these fun statement earrings with GoodyBeads.com NEW stock of Swarovski® pendulum beads. Take an eyepin and thread on the 10mm and 8mm crystal beads and make a simple loop. Attach the TierraCast® bar link to each loop. Connect the two bar links with the 6mm jump ring. Add your favorite choice of ear wires. Can’t you see yourself at a FABULOUS party wearing these FABULOUS earrings?!

Swarovski® and Rhinestone Earrings

You can’t have enough sparkle when it comes to dressing up for New Year’s. You have to sparkle as much as the flashy New Year’s ball!

We’ve given these Swarovski® an extra boost of bling with rhinestone rondelles. We made these earrings with an eyepin, 8mm round Swarovski® bead, 6mm rhinestone rondelle bead and a 4mm bicone Swarovski® crystal. Thread on beads and make a simple loop. Open the eyepin loop closest to the 4mm crystal and attach 1 inch of CH00412 – 5mm Filigree Leaves Chain. Open the other loop and attach 1 inch of CH00533 – 2.5mm Soldered Cable Chain. Attach the other end of CH00533 chain to your choice of ear wire. You are ready to rock the night away when the ball drops for 2016!

Wrapped Crystal Drop Earrings

We love these pear-shaped Swarovski® earrings with patina sparkle that add a glittery shine. Paired with gold earring hooks and gold artistic wire, heads will turn to ask, “Where’d you get those?” Check out our tutorial below on how to wire wrap a briolette or top-drilled bead.

Jewelry Components List

Pendulum Posh

• (1 pair) A012827 – Sterling Silver Filled French Wire Earrings
• (4) TC01295 – Rhodium Bar Link
• (1) A001529 – 6mm Jump Ring
• (2) A019612 – 2 Inch Eyepins
• (2) SW01205 – 10x7mm Silver Night Pendulum Bead
• (4) SW01204 – 8×5.5mm Silver Night Pendulum Bead

Swarovski® and Rhinestone Earrings

• (1 pair) A012827 – Sterling Silver Filled French Wire Earrings
• (2) A019612 – 2 Inch Eyepins
• (2) SW00039 – 8mm Round Light Colorado Topaz
• (2) SW00204 – 4mm Bicone Light Colorado Topaz
• (2) A004469 – 6mm Clear Rhinestone Rondelle
• (1) CH00412 – 5mm Filigree Leaves Chain
• (1) CH00533 – 2.5mm Cable Chain

Crystal Drop Earrings

• (2) SW01029 – 16mm White Patina Pear Shaped Pendant
• (1 pair) Z001082 – Gold Filled Ear Wire
• AW00028 – 22 Gauge Natural Artistic Wire

The holiday season is here and it’s the time of reconnecting with loved ones and gift giving. Looking for a quick holiday gift? We have some inspirational easy leather DIY projects. Jump on the trend of fashionable leather bracelets or try out an alternative use of flat leather for an easy DIY key chain.

Winter White Splendor Leather Bracelet

Simplify gift-giving with a stunning bracelet using 2mm leather cord. Cut the 2mm round cord at 8 inches. Fold the cord in half and slide the TierraCast® barrel bead (TC01538) through the cord ends to create a loop. Glue the cord ends to a hooked curved clasp (A019043) and you are done! You may want to make a few of these because you’ll want to keep one for yourself.

Licorice Leather Bracelet

Licorice leather bracelets are the perfect statement jewelry. Cut the licorice leather to the preferred wrist length. Add a combination of beads and spacers to add color and use O-rings to keep beads and spacers in place. Lastly, glue your choice of licorice clasp.

Leather Key Chain

Think outside the box of bracelets and you have an alternative way to use flat leather. Make a leather key chain with 10mm flat leather and licorice beads, spacers, and O-rings.

1. Start out with 6 inches of 10mm flat leather.
2. Fold the leather in half with the key ring in the loop Glue your leather pieces together.
3. Slide on licorice spacers/beads and a 12mm rubber O-ring.
4. Cut your leather ends in a criss-cross angle.

These customizable leather key chains are great stocking stuffers, don’t you think?

Check out our other blog posts for more easy DIY leather projects:

Memory Wire Leather Wrap Bracelets

Watercolor Flat Leather Bracelets

5mm Flat Leather with Slider Charm Bracelets

Easy Leather Bracelets – Summer Style

Need more inspiration? Be inspired with GoodyBeads.com’s past monthly Trends We Love featuring leather. Here are a few leather trends we LOVE!

Clasp It: Unique Clasps Make Stunning Bracelets

2mm Round Leather: Easy Leather Bracelets are Great for the Holidays

Leather Wrap Bracelets: Get Wrapped Up In Stylish Leather and Cork Bracelets

Spell It Out: Make a Personalized Phrase Bracelet!

Statement Bracelets: Big and Bold Leather Bracelets

Wrap Suede & Chain Bracelets: Make Trendy Stackable Wrap Bracelets

Winter White Splendor Leather Bracelet

• (8”) A013406 – White Leather Cord
• (1) A019043 – Gold Plated Hook Curved Clasp
• (1) TC01538 – Gold Hammer Barrel Bead
• OR TC01752 – 4mm Gold Deco Barrel Bead by TierraCast

Licorice Leather Bracelet

• (7.5”) A015304 – Baby Blue Licorice Leather
• (2) Z001947 – 12mm Chocolate Brown Rubber O-Ring
• (2) Z001948 – 12mm Sage Green Rubber O-Ring
• (2) A015327 – Antique Brass Oval Spacer Bead
• (2) A015612 – Antique Brass Slice Spacer Bead
• (1) A015348 – Green/Brown Oval Ceramic Bead

Leather Key Chain

Black Version:

• (6”) CH00051 – 10mm Black Flat Leather
• (1) A016424 – 12mm White O-Rings
• (1) A018905 – C-Koop Steel Grey with Chamois Brown Enamel on Copper Slider
• (1) MCKR0002 – Key Ring
• A015821 – Super New Glue

Natural Cork Version:

• (6”) CH00547 – Natural with Gold Flecks Cork
• (1) Z001947 – 12mm Chocolate Brown Rubber O-Ring
• (1) Z003499 – Alphabet K Letter
• (1) Z003555 – Alphabet M Letter
• (1) MCKR0002 – Key Ring
• A015821 – Super New Glue

by Kristal Wick

We’ve got a brilliant Black Friday gift with purchase for all you beady peeps! Since the gift-giving season is upon us and you’re creating like magical elves, we’re here to help you out with loads of FAB holiday beads you can mix and match! Use them to design an all-in-one beautiful jewelry piece for yourself or make dozens of earrings for your gal pals. Just add a few ear wires, headpins, chain and you’re good to go. I made seven different projects out of this Black Friday Free Gift and still had leftover beads! So there’s plenty to go around. You can also find all the beads included in our Black Friday Free Gift on our website. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going!

Snowman Earrings

Here are three easy designs in this DIY blog. They’re quick to make and highly addictive – once you start, it’s impossible to stop!

Snowman Earrings

(2) A012827 – Sterling Silver Filled French Wire Earrings

(2) A019688 – 2 Inch Silver Plated 20 Gauge Headpins with Ball Top

(2) A004285 – 12mm Clear Hand Painted Snowman Head Lampwork Beads

(2) A008069 – 4mm Red Miracle Bead

(2) A008067 – 4mm Green Miracle Bead

Steps

1. Slide your beads onto a headpin in the following order:

Red Miracle Bead

Snowman Bead

Green Miracle Bead

2. Make a simple loop at the top of your headpin.
3. Open the loop of the earwire. Slip the headpin dangle onto earwire loop and close loop.
4. Repeat for the other earring.

Snowman with Flowers Earrings

Who doesn’t like a darling snowman? Festive with a pair of jeans as well as with a fancy holiday party dress, these little guys are sure to bring many smiles this holiday season.

Snowman with Flowers Earrings

(2) A020541 – Sterling Silver Ear Wire with 4mm May Bi-Cone Crystal

(2) A019688 – 2 Inch Silver Plated 20 Gauge Headpins with Ball Top

(2) A004282 – 20mm Clear Hand Painted Snowman Lampwork Beads

(4) A008069 – 4mm Red Miracle Bead

Steps

1. Slide your beads onto a headpin in the following order:

Red Miracle Bead

Snowman Bead

Red Miracle Bead

2. Make a simple loop at the top of your headpin.
3. Open the loop of the earwire. Slip the headpin dangle onto earwire loop and close loop.
4. Repeat for the other earring.

Snowflake Bracelet

Blue snowflakes and a splash of silver says winter in the warmest way, don’t you think? Customize this bracelet for any age and style. Oh, be sure to make one for yourself, too!

Snowflake Bracelet

(1) A002734 – 8mm Rhodium Plated Fancy Chain Link

(1) A019633 – 3 Inch Silver Plated 20 Gauge Eyepins

(3) A012842 – 4mm Matte Silver Plated Jump Rings

(1) A005566 – 10mm Blue Hand Painted Snowflake Lampwork Beads

(4) A008065 – 4mm Silver/White Miracle Bead

(2) A002968 – 9mm Silver Plated Bali Style Round Beads

(1) A003578 – 8mm Silver Plated Simple Round Toggle Clasp

Steps

1. Cut two equal lengths of chain.
2. Slide your beads onto the eyepin in the following order:

Silver/White Miracle Bead

Silver Plated Bali Style Round Bead

Silver/White Miracle Bead

Snowflake Bead

Silver/White Miracle Bead

Silver Plated Bali Style Round Bead

Silver/White Miracle Bead

3. Make a simple loop at the top of your eyepin.
4. Open the eyepin loop, slip one chain link into the eyepin loop and close loop.
5. Repeat for the other side of the bracelet.
6. Add a toggle bar to one end of the chain using two jump rings.
7. Add the toggle to the other chain link using a jump ring.

by Kristal Wick

Nothing says celebrate like darling, dangling ear candy, am I right beady peeps? And since this is the time of year for pulling out all the stops on festivities, here are five new Merrily Bright Holiday Earring Kits for your DIY pleasure!

Frosty the Snowman and Penguin Santa Swarovski® Earring Kits

Everyone needs a little whimsy now and then, don’t you think? These little snowmen and penguins are just the ticket. Whether you’re gift giving to a youngster or a young-at-heart-ster, these are sure to bring a smile—not to mention they’re simple and quick!

Mini Snow Globe Swarovski® Earring KitNostalgic Nana on your nice list? These darling mini snow globe kits have the daintiest, detailed Santas just waiting to delight all ages (mostly yours). They’re very lightweight and wearable, perfect for the office.

Star Bright Swarovski® Earring Kits

Need a cup of classy cheer? Our Star Bright earring kits made with Swarovski® Artemis crystals are excellent for those holiday parties and events where you need a more elegant look. There’s nothing better than Swarovski® to deliver stylish chic. Make a red pair and a green pair, keep one earring of each and gift the other set to your BFF so you’ll have a matching “unmatched” set of earrings for the holidays. Remember our  Merrily Bright Holiday Earring Kits make great necklaces as well. Just add a chain,  leather or suede cord to your earring loop and you have an instant pair of matching necklaces! Or gift a kit to one of your “jewelry-making-wannabee” friends and guide her through the first kit. We’ve given you everything you need (you provide the tools) to ensure success and convert another pal to the wonderful world of jewelry-making!

by Kristal Wick
Customized purse charms and accessories have been on trend for many moons and for good reason! They’re darling reminders of what we carry near and dear to our hearts from kitties to cupcakes. Designs are all up to your own imagination and creativity.

Nylah Glass Tiles

Here at GoodyBeads, we love our kids and pets (they’re kind of the same thing to many of us) so we’ve come up with some super easy instructions for making your own personalized glass tile charms for purse charms, pendants and rings, with the cutest models Nylah, Sparkle and Bling (we realize we’re slightly biased but you have to admit, they are adorable)! Embellish a chain with Swarovski pearls, TierraCast® charms and other “Goodys” and you’ve created a masterpiece.

Bling and Sparkle Glass Tiles

Nylah is Carlee’s — our Graphics Designers’ – four-year-old daughter. Sparkle and Bling are my rescue pups who pose for treats any time — day or night! Whether you’re making these customized glass tiles for yourself, grandma or a BFF, let your creative juices flow when in design mode. They make great custom holiday and birthday gifts, wedding party jewelry and school picture memorabilia pieces – for just a few ideas.

Nylah, Sparkle and Bling Tiles

(1) A013854 – 35mm Large Circle Glass Tile (Nylah tile)

(1) A013863 – 35mm Large Square Glass Tile (Sparkle and Bling tile)

(1) A013850 – 23mm Small Square Glass Tile (Nylah tile and Bling ring)

(1) A013856 – 23mm Oval Dome Cabochon Glass Tile (Nylah ring tile)

(1) Z010105 – 20mm Adjustable Silver-Plated Flat Ring with Glue Pad (Nylah ring)

(1) A015180 – 12mm Adjustable Silver-Plated Ring with Glue Pad (Nylah ring)

(1) A013610 – 2 oz Diamond Glaze

(1) A011455 – E-6000

Paint Brush
Scissors
Sharpie Oil-Based Metallic Markers

Assorted images printed on an ink jet printer

Steps for a Custom Glass Tile

1. Size and print out your images on a laser printer (the ink from ink jet printers tends to run).
2. Cut out your image(s) to fit a specific glass tile, making sure the image is a tad smaller than the tile itself.
3. Using a soft paint brush, apply a light coat of Diamond Glaze to the back of a tile.
4. Carefully press the colored side of the image to the Diamond Glaze and press out any bubbles or air pockets.
5. When dry, color the edges of the tile with a metallic oil-based Sharpie maker (we used silver and gold in our samples). Let dry.

For a Pendant

6. Attach the pendant finding to the back of the pendant using E6000 and let dry.

For a Ring

6. Color the back of the tile with the Sharpie pen and let dry. Then attach to ring back using E6000 and let dry.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s time to get serious about our bling and what better way than to adorn with red and green Holiday Swarovski® Cha-Cha jewelry? Expandable bracelets and rings are perfect for every shape and size of gal pal, and who can resist some blingy baubles for your lovely lobes.

Holiday Swarovski® Cha-Cha Bracelet

Why red and green for the holidays? This tradition dates back thousands of years when folks used holly, ivy and mistletoe to beautify and brighten up their homes during the long dark winter. This was also a vital reminder that winter would NOT last forever and spring would definitely come blooming around the corner! The Romans exchanged evergreen branches in January and the Egyptians used palm branches to symbolize good luck. Red represented the color of fire and keeping warm. White symbolized peace and purity in the western cultures.

Items used in Bracelet: A005639, A019691 (2), SW00167 (33), SW00133 (33), SW00105 (33)

Directions:

1. Slide a bicone onto a headpin and make a simple loop. NOTE: Be sure the loop is large enough to freely swing from the bracelet loops.
2. Repeat Step #1 for all the bicones.
3. Open bicone dangle and hook it through a bracelet loop, close loop. Complete bottom row with the following pattern: clear bicone, red bicone, clear bicone, green bicone.
4. Complete top row using the same pattern and add another round of bicones around this row so you end up with two bicone dangles per bracelet loop.

Holiday Swarovski® Cha-Cha Earrings

When creating our DIY Holiday Cha-Cha projects, we suggest making all the bicone simple loop dangles first. Get comfy on the couch and watch your fave movie or TV series marathon while you’re cranking these babies out. Practice makes perfect in the world of simple loop making! So why not perfect your talents while you’re on a roll and make them all at once?

Whether you believe the deeper meaning of these colors or simply just like how they look, nothing feels quite as festive as sparkly Swarovski® crystal holiday jewelry for your parties, the office or gifts. Of course put yourself first on that gift list, and while you’re beading away remember: one for you, one for your BFF, mom, sister, etc. Well, you get the picture. Now, get going and happy beading!

Items used in earrings: A010233, A019691, SW00167 (14), SW00133 (14), SW00105 (14)

Directions:

1. Slide a bicone onto a headpin and make a simple loop. NOTE: Be sure the loop is large enough to freely swing from the earring loops.
2. Repeat Step #1 for all the bicones.
3. Open bicone dangle and hook it through an earring loop, close loop. Add three bicone dangles per earring loop (one of each color).
4. Repeat Step #3 until all earrings loops have three dangles.

By Kristal Wick

We love everything about a good tassel here at Goodybeads. You can create the simplest of jewelry designs, add a tassel and violà you’ve got instant glam! Traditionally, tassels were popular for embellishing home goods (Aunt Gertrude’s curtains, pillows, lampshades and even chandeliers), but they’ve “trended” their way into our jewelry and DIY projects — thank goodness! “Tassel” originated from “tassau”, a Latin term referring to a clasp at the neck of a garment that was originally worn by military officers and priests as talismans to ward off evil spirits. Also known as “passementerie” in France, “passamanaria” in Italy and “aziamentos” in Spain, the simple tassel can be traced back to the ancient tombs of the pharaohs in Egypt.

The Chinese incorporated tassels into their woven silks. But it was those trendsetting French folks that turned tassels into some serious ornamentation. In the 16th century, the first Guild of the Passementiers was founded and passementiers had to complete a seven year apprenticeship in order to become a Master in one of the many guilds. Each tassel was made from highly valued materials like silk or metallic gold-and-silver threads, so they became a symbol of wealth, power and prestige. With at least 300 threads per tassel, it is no wonder that the passementiers took such great pride in their work (and you thought seed beading took a lot of time to perfect)!

Tassel Earrings

You can actually make your own tassel (perhaps not quite as elaborate as the passementiers’ version) or you can use ready-to-wear tassels such as these in our earring and bracelet projects. They come in some very popular colors so you can customize to your liking. Earrings can also become dangle purse charms, or make a necklace using a single tassel. Here’s the #411 on how to make these terrific tassel beauties:

Tassel Earrings

(2) Z007553 – 8cm Small Black Suede Leather Tassel

(2) A016387 – 2 Inch Hematite Enameled Copper 20 Gauge Eyepins

(2) TC01903 – Silver Filled French Hoop Wire Earrings by Tierracast

(4) TC00030 – 4mm Antique Silver Quad Heishi Spacer by TierraCast

(4) TC00252 – 5mm Antique Silver Beaded Cap by TierraCast

(1) GS00530 – 8mm Apple Jasper Faceted Rondelle Gemstone Beads from Dakota Stones

Tool: A013734 – EUROnomic 2K German Side Cutter

Tool: A013728 – Classic Wubbers Round Nose Pliers

Tool: A013727 – Classic Wubbers Chain Nose Pliers

Steps

1. Open eye pin and insert tassel. Close eye pin.
2. String onto eyepin: bead cap, rondelle, spacer, rondelle, spacer, rondelle, bead cap and create a small loop at the top of the eye pin.
3. Open earwire loop and add eye pin. Close loop and trim tassel to desired length.
4. Repeat for the other earring.
5. Trim tassels to your liking.

Tassel Bracelet

Tassel Bracelet

(2) Z007553 – 8cm Small Black Suede Leather Tassel

(2) A021663 –  Small Bead Stoppers

(1) FTBW0002 – Soft Flex MEDIUM Gauge 0.019 Inch Diameter Beading Wire

(1) A012857 – 2mm Crimp Tube Assortment Pack

(2) TC01899 – 3mm Silver Crimp Cover by TierraCast

(1) TC00439 – 17mm Silver Oval Pewter Toggle Clasp by Tierracast

(3) Z011515 – 5mm Silver Plated Round Jump Rings

(1) GS00537 – 8mm Black Silver Leaf Jasper Gemstone Faceted Rondelle Beads from Dakota Stones (20)

(40) TC00030 – 4mm Antique Silver Quad Heishi Spacer by TierraCast

(22) TC01132 – 4mm Black Kenyan Heishi Spacer by TierraCast

Tool: A013734 – EUROnomic 2K German Side Cutter

Tool: A013728– Classic Wubbers Round Nose Pliers

Tool: A013727– Classic Wubbers Chain Nose Pliers

Tool: FTTL0003– Crimping Pliers

Steps

1. Open jump ring, insert tassel and close jumpring.
2. Cut a piece of beading wire 12 inches long, add a beadstopper to one end.
3. String on silver spacer, black spacer, silver spacer, rondelle.
4. Repeat Step #3 nine more times.
5. Add black spacer, tassel jumpring, black spacer, rondelle and repeat Step #3 ten more times.
6. Slide a crimp tube into the wire, add the toggle and pass the wire back through the crimp tube.
7. Place the crimp tube into the crimping pliers’ notch closest to the handle and squeeze the pliers until you feel the crimp tube squish into a little taco shape.
8. Place the crimp in the first notch of the pliers so the taco is standing up.
9. Squeeze the pliers until the crimp is fully squished. Give the wire a gentle tug to make sure the wire is secured.
10. Trim the wire using your wire cutter so the wire is flush with the crimp tube.
11. Add a crimp cover over the crimp end and place in the 1^st notch of the crimping pliers. Gently squeeze until the crimp tube is completely surrounding the crimp forming a round bead shape.
12. Repeat crimping the other bracelet end attaching the toggle bar using two jumprings.
13. Repeat Step #11 on the other bracelet end.
14. Trim tassel to your liking.

Prepping costumes, buying candy, carving pumpkins, setting up ghoulish decorations and all your yearly routines of getting Halloween-ready, you can sure make some time to whip up some easy Halloween jewelry pieces. We have three fun and easy jewelry pieces to complement this spooky holiday.

#BOO Necklace

One of Goody Beads’ New Goodys for September month are these dainty, cute letters that you can string onto even daintier chain. For the love of Halloween, we choose “#boo” letters to showcase one Halloween’s signature statements, while throwing in a social media reference of course! We cut the 1mm rolo chain at 16 inches and attached a silver crimp with loop to the ends of the dainty chain by folding the crimps. We selected an easy lobster claw to one end and a closed jump ring to the other. You are ready to trend up your outfit with this #boo necklace!

Spider Web Necklace

We started out by choosing one of our many beaded link chains, in our chain section. The CH00281 is perfect in size and theme. We had measured it to a length of 3 feet and used a small jump ring to link the ends together. With another jump ring, we attached a spider and web charm to the chain. And you are done with this easy necklace that you can slip on and off with your wicked costume outfit.

Candy Corn Earrings

Halloween isn’t Halloween without mentioning candy corn. Who doesn’t love candy corn? It’s pure sugar! We dedicate this portion to the love of candy corn by making a pair of cute earrings! Using gunmetal headpins, we threaded on seed beads and iconic candy corn and finished it off with a simple loop. Hooked them onto some gunmetal lever back earrings and you are set to celebrate Halloween!

#BOO Necklace

(2) CH00707 – 1mm Silver Plated Rolo Chain

(2) A021707 – Antique Silver Crimp with Loop Chain Ends

(1) A021625 – Hashtag Beads

(1) A021598 – Lowercase B – Alphabet Initial Bead

(2) A021611 – Lowercase O – Alphabet Initial Bead

(2) A002413 – 4mm Jump Ring

(1) A004272 – 7mm Closed Jump Ring

(1) A014106 – 7mm Lobster Claw

Spider Web Necklace

(3) CH00281 – 3mm Jet Beaded Link Chain

(2) A002413 – 4mm Jump Ring

(1) Z003988 – Spider and Web Pewter Charm

Candy Corn Earrings

(2) A022043 – Glass Candy Corn

(4) SB00066 – Size 8 Opaque Black Seed Bead

(4) SB02042 – Jet Amber Czech Glass O Beads

(2) A019655 – 2 Inch Gunmetal Headpin

(1 pair) A002409 – Gunmetal Leverback Earrings

Are you ready to start beading but unsure of what you need to get started? We have compiled some beading essentials that we always have on hand.

Tools: Tools are the number one essentials of beadings. Without the necessary tools, you will not be able to complete most of your jewelry projects.

Chain/Flat Nose Pliers – Personally, I like to have two pairs of chain nose pliers on hand. Sometimes when opening jump rings with a stronger gauge or for daintier/smaller size jump rings, it is helpful to use two pliers.

Round Nose Pliers – This is another great essential tool if you are planning to do a lot of wire or headpin looping and/or wrapping.

Flush or Side Cutters – These are great for soft wire or headpin precise cuts. Make sure to use a softer gauge wire with these cutters, as thicker/stronger wire can damage these cutters. You may want to get a Memory Wire Cutter for thicker and heavier duty cuts.

Crimping Tool – This tool is best to have around for your flex wire and crimp tubes.

Memory Wire Cutter – This cutter is used for thicker and heavier cuts like bulky chain or thick gauge wire.

Or, to get you started, you can always get a starter plier kit/set, which will have most of the essentials tools listed above.

Stringing Materials are the backbone of your design. It holds and shapes your beads and findings together.

Elastic Cord – Great for starting out making stretchy bracelets. Elastic Cord is sturdy cord that comes in different colors and thickness.

Beading Wire – For a clean, finished, durable, and flexible jewelry design, use flex beading wire of many different colors and thickness. It is best to use with crimping tool and crimp tubes.

Beading Thread – This is similar to nylon thread used for knotting a pearl necklace or hemp cord for making the popular macramé bracelet.

Chain – Make chain into tassels, or use as an extender to a bracelet or necklace, or layer different chain finishes for a necklace complete of chain.

Findings: Findings are the extra bonus pieces to your jewelry that gives it that WOW factor. It individualizes the jewelry with different pops of color finishes, unique designs or shapes.

Ear Wire – Ear wire comes in different styles: french hook, lever back, post, thread and kidney. Choose your statement ear wire.

Headpins/Eyepins – It is always essential to have some standard headpins with flat bottoms and eyepins with a looped ends of all different lengths and finishes on hand. They can be quickly used for earrings or to make bead dangles. We do recommend getting a variety of headpin/eyepin with different gauges. The larger the gauge count (22 and higher), the thinner and flexible the wire will be. These are best to use for wrapped loops or lightweight bead dangles. For headpins/eyepins that has a lower gauge count (18-21), they are thicker and sturdier. These are best for making wire loops and pendant charms.

Clasps/Claw/Toggles – Add finishing touches to your necklace or bracelet with a unique clasp or toggle. TierraCast® has some decorative clasps and toggle findings.

Jump Rings – Jump rings comes in many sizes and used for attachment of charms, pendants, clasps, beads, and anything that needs dangling. You can also round up a large amount of them for a chain maille project. The gauge of the jump rings also does help to have many different sizes on hand. A larger gauge jump ring are great to use for simple, small charms, while smaller gauge jump rings are thicker and best to use for holding clasps and extender chain for a sturdy hold.

Bead Storage:

Neatly contain your beads and findings with bead storage. We love to have see-through containers so that you can visually see your products. With many bead storage options to choose from, you are sure to find one for your beading needs.

Now that you have your jewelry beading essentials, round up your favorite beads, spacers, bead caps, pendants, etc. and get to beading! There are endless possibilities and styles when it comes to beading. What will you make today?