Thursday, August 14, 2014

Craft Ideas:DIY Button Tree

I love to use buttons in my daily crafting because they are easy to get and they can bring great ideas to me as well. Last time, I re-used buttons to diy a button calendar, and today I will show you how to recycle buttons to make a tree! 


I hung this button craft on my wall as an art work.It attracted my guests' attentions when they came to my house.I can't help to say that it's a great decoration idea too!! LOL!

Now, let's see how to make this button tree.You need to prepare a thin wood board,a piece of white paper,pencil, glue and various of buttons.
After getting all of these easy-to-prepare materails, you firstly need to draw a tree pattern on the paper, then cut the paper tree along the line. The 2nd step is to put the paper tree on the board and draw a tree on the board along the paper pattern. If you are good at paintting, you can skip the 1st step and draw the tree on the board directly.
Finally, you can use glue to stick different sizes of buttons on the board. When the tree line is filled with buttons, the button tree is finished. 

To make it more fun, you can draw and cut some birds and stick them on the tree as well!

Someone asked me where to get these buttons, well, you can shop them at your local craft store or buy them from online store if you need large amounts of buttons, it would be much cheaper for crafters like me who love to use buttons is crafting. And buying wholesale jewelry making supplies at bulk prices can save us a lot of money. 


Thursday, July 31, 2014

DIY a Cute Button Calender with Recycled Buttons

Environmental protection is the hottest topic nowadays, and using recycled button in crafts is a great idea to protect our environment. It's fun, cheap and creative!!

I believe that almost every woman will  found that there are old clothes, cloth and buttons left in their house, and it's very lavish to just throw them away. Then, why not reuse these recycled materials in your crafts? 

You can DIY amzing crafts with these recycled materials and it's a good activity to do with your kids at home when it's a rainy day. 

Today, I will show you how to DIY a cute button calender with recycled buttons.


Materials you need to prepare are: an old photo frame or wooden frame; cloth; tape; buttons; fabric, paper, glue etc. 

Steps are showed in the pictures below:
Tada, the button calendar is finished! DIY your own calendar with recycled button at home today!

If you think the colors of the button is not what you want or you need more colorful button, you need get wholesale buttons at your local craft store or you can shop them online. 






Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Beautiful Rainbow Loom Bracelets

Loom Bands are so hot these days and many crafter love to use them to diy bracelets, charms and some even use rainbow loom bands to make a dress. That's really amazing!!!

Here I will share some loom bracelets with you;

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Cheap Beads Are Used In Mardi Gras Throws

If you have never been to a traditional Mardi Gras party, then you are missing out. There are lots of different traditions and rituals which started at the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans and have quickly spread to other Gras festivals around the county (and around the world). One of the most unique Mardi Gras traditions is the tossing of special items known as "throws" from this Gras floats into the watching crowds. These throws are usually strings of cheap beads, strings of shells, wooden doubloons inscribed with the logo of the float, decorated cups, decorated plastic items or small inexpensive toys.
Many of the "krewes" who ride on the floats in the Mardi Gras parades will actually spend weeks or months before each parade preparing their special throws. This preparation may involve hunting down and ordering throws, or it may involve stringing thousands of cheap plastic beads onto strings to use as gifts for the crowd. Whilst it is much easier for krewes to order their throws in readymade, spending time making throws can be an important part of the festivities for some smaller krewes.. Making beaded throws gives each krewe the opportunity to create something completely unique which represents their float. Cheap beads are widely available in lots of different colors, shapes and styles, so these groups have plenty of options to choose from if they want to design their own necklace throws. Many parents will also make their own throw necklaces if they are having private Mardi Gras parties with their families and children.
The period leading up to Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of the busiest times for printers and logo experts in New Orleans as krewes seek to get their logos stamped upon a wide range of items. Bead sellers have previously stated that tens of thousands of crates of cheap beads enter the city in the days leading up to the main festivities. Other cities which celebrate Mardi Gras have noted similar trends. Many of the beads which are used in New Orleans are ordered in from China, as Chinese bead sellers are best placed to fulfill such large orders for beads at an affordable price. In order to receive this many beads for the Mardi Gras Parade, most large krewes must place their order by September.
Throwing strings of cheap beads first became popular at the beginning of the 20th century. As "throws" became a more and more popular part of the Mardi Gras parade, krewes became more and more creative about what they decided to toss out to the waiting crowds. Krewes began to throw plastic toys such as Frisbees out to the crowd so that they would have something fun to take home with them. One krewe is even famed for handing out hand-painted coconuts to audience members, although these items are new usually handed out by people who are walking alongside the floats, as throwing whole coconuts was considered to be a serious health and safety issue.
Cheap beads are used for plenty of things. One of the most famous uses for cheap beads is in Mardi Gras throws.

FAQ: Jewelry Findings

If you are new to the world of hobby jewelry making, you may have a lot of questions about the materials and tools which you use to complete your projects. One of the products which people have a lot of questions about are jewelry findings, because there are such a wide range of different findings available. Here are answers to a few of the most frequently ask questions about the findings which are commonly used in jewelry making projects.
1) What are Jewelry Findings?
"Findings" is the name which is given to the wide selection of different items which are used to connect jewelry making components together. Without the correct use of findings, jewelry items would look very pretty but they would not be functional, as they would not be connected together properly, and it might be hard to wear them or attach them to your person properly. Examples of items which are considered to be findings include: jump rings, clasps, earwires, brooch assemblies, crimp beads and eye loops.
2) Why are there so many different types of findings?
Different types of findings serve very different purposes. For example, you cannot (easily) attach a brooch to a dress with a lobster claw clasp, neither can you safely fix a charm to necklace with a pin stem. Each finding has been designed with a specific purpose in mind, and when used for that purpose they are very functional. Whilst some modern jewelry makers like to "mix things up a bit" by using findings for something which they are not specifically designed for, there is no guarantee that these forms of experimentation will work! Because jewelry makers are constantly striving for perfection, new types of findings are regularly being invented to help to make things easier.
3) Is it possible to make my own jewelry findings?
It is possible to make some types of findings very easily if you have a little bit of experience of working with jewelry making tools, whilst other findings are almost impossible to make without the proper training and equipment. For example, it is very easy to make simple eyepins using thicker jewelry making wire and a pair of round nose pliers. Simply grasp one end of your wire and rotate the pliers so that a small, single loop of wire forms around them. Remove the pliers and you should be left with a small loop at the end of the wire which can be used as an eyepin. Being able to create this will give you a lot of versatility in your crafts. However, it is impossible to make your own versions of many of the types of clasps which are available on the market. Luckily, there are lots of different suppliers of jewelry findings available, so you will always be able to pick up these products.
4) Can I buy findings wholesale?
There are plenty of suppliers which sell findings at wholesale prices. Suppliers know that they are essential and are able to sell big packets at affordable prices.
Jewelry findings are an essential part of the jewelry making process. Buy or make your own jewelry findings to help to complete your project pieces.

Where To Buy Wholesale Jewelry Supplies

A lot of people have turned to jewelry making in a bid to keep their costs down, and others have turned to jewelry making in an attempt to make a little extra money from a home business. It is an enjoyable hobby which can be inexpensive if you know where to go find all of your supplies at a low costs. Buying wholesale jewelry supplies is a great way to ensure that you have plenty of materials to work with, without inflating your costs. Here are some tips about where to find the best wholesale jewelry supplies at the best prices.
1) Online Companies
Online sellers are great places to look if you want to find wholesale jewelry supplies. Because they are not affected by the same constraints as sellers who operate from a physical high street location, online sellers are able to offer wholesale prices on many of their supplies. When you are shopping online, it is even possible to deal with sellers who operate in a different country to your current location, meaning that you will have access to an incredibly wide selection of products at great prices.
2) Trade Shows
These shows are set up to help manufactures to introduce their products to a wide range of people at once. At these shows it is usually possible to pick up wholesale jewelry supplies. Some sellers and manufacturers even offer special, limited edition products at these shows, which it is not possible to pick up elsewhere. Visiting a trade show will give you the chance to talk to sellers and manufacturers face to face, and share information with them. Sellers will sometimes run special tutorials which may help to give you extra hints and tips about how to use their products. One of the disadvantages of shopping at trade shows is that you may have to travel to get there and you may have to pay an entrance fee to gain access.
3) Hobby Clubs
Many hobby clubs run schemes to help their members to gain access to beads and other jewelry supplies at wholesale prices. Big clubs are able to negotiate fantastic deals with manufacturers to help their members to get wholesale jewelry suppliers. Being in a club can help you to get a kind of collective bargaining power which can be used as leverage to enable you to get great deals from manufacturers which they would not be able to give to a single buyer. Other manufacturers and sellers offer special discount codes to club members. These discount codes may not be widely known, so ask other club members for advice.
4) Travel Abroad
If you see a gap in the market, you may be able to travel abroad to look for your wholesale jewelry supplies. Although this will not cut costs in the short term, you may be able to start up your own import business if you are proficient in the language and have a proper understanding of the customs and business regulations which operate in both countries.
Wholesale jewelry supplies can help to keep your costs down. There are lots of different places to pick up wholesale jewelry supplies if you want to make jewelry.

Supporters' Bracelets Made With Wholesale Beads

Summer is coming around again and the FIFA Football World Cup is about to start. Many countries are already beginning to succumb to football fever and as the tournament gathers pace, the excitement is sure to build up more and more! Everyone wants to show their support for their favorite football teams, and with 32 different teams to choose from, there is something for everyone! If you want to make a little bit of money from your jewelry making hobby, you can make and sell supporters' bracelets using a selection of wholesale beads and some jewelry making supplies.
Wholesale beads are an inexpensive purchase and they are a great choice for this sort of project because they come in such a wide variety of colors. It is possible to buy wholesale beads of a uniform size and shape in almost any color you can imagine. It is also possible to find these uniform beads with numbers or letters printed on them, which will give you even more flexibility about the supporters' bracelets which you create. As well as making bracelets which include country names, you can make bracelets which spell out the names of popular players and their shirt numbers. Wholesale beads are also a great choice because they are durable enough to stand up to the rigors of an active, sporting lifestyle.
Making these types of bracelets is very simple. It is so simple that you can even make bracelets to order for people whilst they wait, as long as you have a lot of different color wholesale beads with you at the time! Because they are fun and simple bracelets for football supporters, it will be a good idea to thread them onto a thin but strong piece of elastic. Using elastic will mean that they can be slipped on and off of the wrist with ease by pulling them over the hand.
Cut a piece of elastic which is just long enough to go around the buyer's wrist. Clamp a bulldog clip over the elastic about half an inch from the end to prevent the beads from falling off as you work. Choose the beads that you need and then thread them on in order. The best beads to choose for supporters' bracelets are ones which represent that country's national colors. If you have letter beads, these also make good choices. If you are using two colors, thread them alternatively and if you are using three colors, thread them in an ABCABC pattern. If you are using letter beads, make sure that you have an equal amount of color beads at either side. Leave about half an inch unbeaded at the end of the elastic.
Once you have finished threading all of your beads, unclamp the bulldog clip, taking care not to spill any of the beads. Tie both ends of the elastic together as securely as possible. Make sure that all of the beads are sitting correctly and then hand the finished product over to your buyer!
Wholesale beads can be used to make lots of different things. These supporters' bracelets which are made using wholesale beads and elastic will have a high profit margin.

The Advantages Of Using Wholesale Acrylic Beads

There are a lot of different types of beads on the market today, meaning that jewelry makers and craft hobbyists have a wide range of items to choose from when they begin a craft project. Wholesale acrylic beads are just one of the many different sorts of beads available, so why should consumers choose wholesale acrylic beads over any of the other varieties on the market? Here are just some of the advantages of this type of bead compared to others:
1) Less Expensive
Wholesale acrylic beads are easy to make in large numbers, so companies are able to sell them at a much lower price than they are able to sell other kinds of beads which may be harder to make. For example, glass or gemstone beads may require intensive polishing in order to make them look attractive, and they therefore cost much more. Despite their low cost, acrylic items do not look cheap.
2) Widely Available
Because they are easy to produce, these beads are widely available, meaning that you need not worry about where to find supplies. There are plenty of sellers on the high street and on the internet who will be able to sell you these beads at great prices. This is especially useful if you are embarking on a large project where you might need a lot of items and could easily run out. Being able to get hold of more wholesale acrylic beads with great ease can help to give you real peace of mind.
3) Variety
Because of the manufacturing process, it is easy to find these beads in a wide variety of styles, shapes and colors, meaning that you will always be able to find what you want. It is possible to find a lot of styles which it simply would not be possible to create if you were using any other material. This will help to give you a lot of choice and versatility as a consumer.
4) Weight
These beads are really lightweight in comparison to gemstone, glass or metal beads, meaning that they can be worn very comfortably all day long, whether they are used on a necklace, a bracelet or on any other item of jewelry. Their weight also helps to make them an excellent item to use in a huge range of different craft and fashion projects, including projects where the material or fabric being used may not be strong enough to support heavier types of bead.
5) Durable
Wholesale acrylic beads are able to withstand a range of temperatures and pressures which some other types of bead are not able to withstand. For example, acrylic beads will not crack as easily as glass beads will if they are subjected to heat or pressure. This makes them an excellent choice for projects where the finished items may be expected to withstand certain pressures, for example a bracelet for a person who has a very active lifestyle and does not want their jewelry to be damaged by everyday use.
Wholesale acrylic beads are a great choice for jewelry makers and craft hobbyists. Wholesale acrylic beads are widely available at low prices.

Saturday, June 7, 2014

How To Select Cheap Beads To Make Jewelry

Beaded jewelry is very popular these days for many reasons, one of which is that it is extremely customizable. There are several different kinds of cheap beaded jewelry that you can make on your own, such as earrings, bracelets, anklets and armbands of your choice and pattern.
Historically, beaded jewelry was made with seashells, glass, wood, gems and metal. Today, if you want to make your own jewelry out of cheap beads, you'll be stunned by the amazing array of beads in different textures, shapes and sizes. And isn't that great? After all, who wants to wear beads that are worn by hundreds of others? By customizing them, you can make gifts of all kinds of patterns and colors and please your friends.
How to choose: You need to think hard before actually selecting beads. For instance, you need to consider the kind of jewelry you want to make. Perhaps you want to take advantage of a trend and give it a spin or you want to make your own signature ultra modern style. The options for you are myriad, so don't let anything come in the way of your cheap beads and your imagination.
You can choose from pearl, seed, crystal, glass and plastic beads that are easily available on the market.
If your choice is something chic, select beads of glass and plastic in different colors and a few in gold and silver. Do you want an ethnic look? For this, you'll need to select earthy colors and natural shades like brown, tan and black. To give a better overall effect to your jewelry, add in some painted wooden beads in rich colors like red, green and yellow so that they brighten up your jewelry.
You can also buy your collection of cheap beads online, but before you press that button, ensure that the site has a relaxed return policy in case you receive damaged beads. If you don't find this out and are landed with broken beads, you will be paying for them but not using them. So, if making cheap beads jewelry is your little business, imagine the loss you're going to incur.
If it's not your business but just a hobby, it's good to buy in bulk and share the expense with a friend. This will help you, as otherwise it would take you a very long time to exhaust the entire stock of cheap beads that you buy in a wholesale lot. If you're purchasing them online, it means you don't get a chance to examine them personally before buying, so here's one more reason for finding out about the site's exchange policy.
Lastly, inspect the beads for any imperfections. If you find them not rounded but oval, reject them outright. Also, make sure that they aren't scratched, broken or chipped as these will be useless to you.
If making cheap beads jewelry is your hobby or your line of business, be very sure of the kind of beads you want as this will tell on your creativity and your standing as a hobbyist. Don't choose by any other parameter except color, material, texture, gradation and smoothness before you start using them.

Advantages Of Buying Acrylic Beads For Making Jewelry

Often, when people refer to plastic beads they really mean acrylic beads but they call them plastic because they have a glossy look. Acrylic beads are synthetic in nature. They are used to make attractive jewelry for children but women too choose them for their innate beauty and for the fact that they are light in weight.
If you're wondering if you too should opt for acrylic beads for your jewelry, consider the advantages. They are many and definitely worth thinking about. Here are a few of them:
· You can get acrylic beads in a variety of shapes and sizes, such as flower beads, round beads, tubular-shaped beads, beads shaped like animals, etc. Other shapes include balls, cubes and barrels. Because of the variety of shapes, people of all ages love them.
· These beads are lightweight, strong and can easily be hung round your neck or your wrists. They are also smooth and look very like gemstones. You can also string acrylic jewelry beads and pendants with rope, string and wire and not feel weighed down by them.
· You can find these beads in a variety of solid colors, which can give a simple effect to your jewelry.
· These beads are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from four millimeters to eight millimeters.
· They are much cheaper than glass beads though they can look like the genuine article.
· Whether you're a jewelry hobbyist or you make it for profit, you can find suppliers of acrylic pendants and beads at specialty jewelry stores and at nationally renowned arts and crafts stores like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Walmart and Target.
· Acrylic jewelry can be very eye-catching and appealing due to its sheen. Beads are available in both opaque and translucent varieties and in a multitude of colors and shades, making them ideal for necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Acrylic jewelry with a distinctive sheen may include stardust, B-Plated and miracle beads.
· You can wear acrylic beads jewelry in any kind of climate because these beads can withstand extremes of temperature very well.
· Acrylic beads are synthetic, so it's possible to get them in a variety of textures. This means more variety for you, so use your imagination and come up with some amazing designs.
· Acrylic mixes well with other materials to give a colorful and quality piece of jewelry because of the range of colors, sizes and shapes. The result is usually wonderful, to say the least.
Use acrylic beads to stunning effect when you make inexpensive but beautiful jewelry with contemporary designs that can be worn anywhere and everywhere.
Final Caveat
Acrylic beads are affordable, versatile and eye-catching, so they present great scope for you to create the best kind of jewelry ever. Patterns that make you feel confident, attractive and energetic will draw more attention to you. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and buy your stock of acrylic beads and keep those hands moving.
If you love making jewelry, buy acrylic beads for their versatility. They offer a great scope.

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Few Facts About Wood Beads

Wood beads are very popular these days. However what is the reason for their popularity? In this article few facts about wood beads are explained that contributes to their popularity.
Wood beads they are highly sought after for a variety of reasons. For one, they are easily available. Secondly, you can have them in a range of colors. You can also choose from a variety of thicknesses and various patterns and types of wood. They are also easy to cut, carve and shape, and they can be polished, lacquered, painted or oiled.
They are also lightweight, so even if the pattern is big and chunky, the jewelry itself is light in weight. Lastly, they combine well with pearls, gems and semi-precious stones, and with Swarovski crystals as well as shells, horn beads and bones.
Types: Wood beads are made from various trees including olive, bamboo, apple, rose, sandalwood, bayong, ebony, ironwood, pear, etc. Some of these trees have a distinct aroma while others come with a very nice grain. Trees like sandalwood have their own fragrance, which is retained even after beads are made out of them. Isn't that a great idea?
Size: If you are creating your own jewelry, you can take advantage of the fact that wood beads are available in graded sizes, beginning from one millimeter and going on to one centimeter. So, go ahead and make your own jewelry designs by mixing and matching with other beads and contrasting them with differently colored and sized wood beads.
Why you should buy wood beads in bulk: Whether you're a trader in wood beads or bulk beads, you stand to gain by buying them at a wholesale price.
For traders, the profit margin increases when they are bought at a bulk rate and sold at a retail price. And if you're a hobbyist buying wholesale beads you can stretch your dollar just a little more by buying these beads at wholesale prices. You might also want to gift them, so once again it helps to buy at bulk rates as you stand to get hefty discounts. Buying wholesale also means that you get the best wood beads at the most affordable rates.
Where to buy: If you are fascinated by wood beads, you will be happy to find that you can locate them both online and offline. Now, with so many sites selling wood beads, you needn't spend valuable time looking for them in stores. This is the best solution for you as you will get to see the best work of countries that make wood beads, such as China, the USA, India, Canada, Africa, Israel, etc. Here, you will be able to buy bulk beads in wood and at attractive rates too.
There are many popular online stores where the wood beads displayed are lightweight and just right for making big and chunky jewelry. The bulk beads that you get at this site can be chosen from a wide range, so you will always get the ones you want to customize your own jewelry. For these reasons, you should consider buying wood beads in bulk and enjoy all the benefits that will afford you.

How To Find Good Cabochons Wholesale Jewelry

Making jewelry can be fun and profitable, and even better the jewelry can be created for friends, neighbors, family and even yourself.  There are infinite styles of jewelry that can be made with some beautiful cabochons, but finding the perfect cabochon can be expensive.  Finding good cabochon wholesale jewelry is a quest many crafters are seeking, and there are a number of websites that provide excellent cabochon stones.  There are lots of settings that a cabochon is absolutely perfect for and adds a beautiful look to the piece of jewelry.
Great Cabochon Jewelry
A cabochon is a rounded stone that is highly polished and has no facets.  The top of the stone is gently curved while the bottom of the stone is flat which makes it very easy to work with and set into a beautiful necklace, ring, or pair of earrings.  Generally opaque stones are best suited for cabochon cuts, and turquoise, opal, tiger eye, and many other stones are well suited for making great cabochon jewelry.
There are a wide variety of wholesalers that can provide beautiful cabochon stones at a reasonable price. These come in a variety of stones, shapes, and colors that can be purchased in bulk.  For example, they carry the following:
·      Cabochons in assorted shapes including:
  • Flat round
  • Flat oval
  • Square
  • Heart
  • Diamond
  • Rectangular
  • Triangular
·      Gemstone Cabochons in assorted materials including:
  • Turquoise
  • Tiger Eye
  • Rose Quarts
  • Red Agate
  • Aventurine
  • Jade
  • Amethyst
  • Obsidian
  • Opal
  • Jasper
  • Quartz
  • Labradorite
There are so many styles, colors, and shapes to choose from, which means the only limitation to making imaginative and one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry is the imagination.
Settings
There are also large quantities of settings from which to choose that have a variety of styles, shapes, and finishes.  There are a variety of choices, such as:
·      Alloy
·      Brass
·      Iron
·      Plastic
·      Nickel
·      Cadmium
·      Silver
·      Gold Plated
·      Copper
·      Enamel
In addition they come in a wide variety of shapes that are very popular with any age group.  Whether the setting is a round, oval, cross, heart, butterfly, or square, there are many styles that will be the perfect setting for a beautiful piece of jewelry.
Great Selections
The hardest part of sitting down and beginning to make the jewelry is deciding which cabochon is going to be used in the mounting.  Because there are so may wholesale cabochons from which to choose, beautiful jewelry can be made with a wide variety of stones and settings, and when buying them wholesale, the price is inexpensive.There are several excellent sources for not only a huge selection of colorful beautiful cabochons, but also a great selection of elegant or fun mountings.
These make wonderful gifts for birthdays, graduations, holidays, and even just for an unexpected surprise.  They are fun to give and fun to receive and it’s a great hobby that anyone – at just about any age – can enjoy being creative.

Taking Care of Cheap Charms Jewelry

Jewelry doesn’t need to be expensive to make a woman feel good – as long as it’s pretty and makes a statement about her, it’s worth it.  However, even inexpensive jewelry gets dirt, oils, and grime on them and have to be cleaned occasionally.  There are some great ways to take care of these cheap charms that will keep them shiny and pretty so that they can be enjoyed for a long time.
Cleaning the Inexpensive Jewelry
There are several steps to taking care of these lovely cheap charms that will help keep them pretty for a long time:
1.     Mix a solution of a very gentle soap (there are several brands of dishwashing soap that will work quite well, such as Joy) and warm water.
2.     Take a soft cloth and dip it in the soapy solution and use it to gently clean the charms and metal parts.
Note:      Some jewelry is made of very inexpensive metals and should not be exposed to water.  For this type of charms, just use a dry jewelry polishing cloth.
3.     Rinse the soap off the jewelry with warm, clean water.
4.     Dry the jewelry with a clean cotton cloth after thoroughly cleaning it.
Note:      It’s always best to dry the jewelry thoroughly with a clean cotton cloth because leaving it to dry in the air can also cause discoloration, spotting, or rusting if the jewelry is made of inexpensive metals
5.     Once the jewelry is thoroughly cleaned and dried store it in a jewelry pouch if one is available; otherwise, store t in a jewelry box to keep it safe from dust or dirt.
Other General Cleaning Suggestions
One thing that jewelers recommend is to take the jewelry off when doing laundry, washing dishes, or using other household cleaners that could harm or discolor jewelry.  Many chemicals, such as bleach, can damage these lovely little charms, therefore they will last much longer and retain their beautiful looks when they are stored safely away from assorted chemicals.
Liquid jewelry cleaners are also available through the jewelry stores, and they do a great job of cleaning some jewelry.  Before using liquid jewelry cleaner, check with the jeweler to ensure it won’t harm or discolor these charms.
Many people have discovered they can make these lovely little charms with some easy to use jewelry making supplies; however, another object that often damages these little charms is rubber because it can change the color of the jewelry.  Be sure to avoid rubber bands for holding the metal pieces together, and refrain from storing them in rubber containers as well.
Enjoy the Charms
It’s always fun to make charm bracelets, or to use them on necklaces or earrings, and it’s important to take good care of them and keep them clean and stored in the proper jewelry pouches or jewelry boxes.  These lovely little charms can be enjoyed for many years to come when they are cleaned with the proper methods and stored in the right containers.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Wholesale Charms - A Buying Guide

Charms are one of the most popular jewelry items available for purchase today. This popular jewelry item was introduced to the people of America after the end of the Second World War. The concept originated in the 1940s and 1950s when soldiers brought keepsakes from the cities they had visited. During those times, the demand was really high.

Charm bracelets have been around for centuries as they were used by the Egyptians and Romans to ward off evil spirits. Today, charm bracelets are mainly used to add to the beauty and grace of people who wear them. Charm bracelets are mostly worn by females. They are also often purchased by males as gifts for their partners. Charm bracelets are fashionable and thoughtful and they can add style to any ensemble.

The idea of using charms in jewelry creation is typically to tell a tale. This could be about happenings in a person's life, achievements or interests. If you are a jewelry designer, it is essential to choose the proper lot size. Wholesale charms are usually sold in sets of 50s, 100s and even 200s for large crafting projects. You can consider your budget when buying wholesale charms and choose a mixed lot or lot which consists of a single type of charm. However, it is essential to verify the contents of the wholesale lot with the seller before buying. This will help you save time and money and will also ensure that whether you sell them as single pieces or use them in the creation of jewelry, they will be sellable in a front store or online.

Wholesale charms are available at incredibly low prices. For a jewelry designer, it is essential to choose a lot that comes with a low price tag to cover operational expenses and yield a reasonable profit. Before you make a purchase, also ensure that the seller offers a fast delivery time. Always buy from a manufacturer or seller who offers a low price and also considers minimum order. When buying wholesale charms, one of the major considerations is the minimum lot size. As a buyer, you need to maintain a good balance between investment and the resale price. Smaller investment per item will help you gain more profit.

Another thing is that you must study the market to ensure that you do not pay more for items that others have paid less for. The wholesale lots you buy should provide the largest profit margin. In addition, you must know the demand cycle to ensure proper management of your inventory. Proper planning will help avoid shortages and surpluses. Check out the market trends and look for themes which are popular at that given time. Consider selecting charms that can be personalized with names, achievements or special dates in order to increase sales. Charm jewelry makes a meaningful gift when it conveys a story to the recipient. As a jewelry designer, you must identify what customers like and conduct proper research to meet the market demand and convert more sales.

Are you looking to buy quality wholesale charms? If you are, then visit us at panda hall.

Some Of The Different Types of Jewelry Clasps Available

Jewelry making is a popular form of art and craft. Some people do it as hobby, while others earn a full time or side income out of jewelry making. Being able to design jewelry allows the artist to express themselves creatively and then wear that expression as part of their fashion ensemble. But, jewelry making is not an easy job. With the huge variety of jewelry making supplies available today, buying the right supplies can be challenging.

Some of the most popular jewelry pieces that artists make are necklaces, bracelets and anklets. These jewelry items have one thing in common and that is they all require some type of clasp to hold the ends together or secure them. Jewelry designers who make multiple pieces of jewelry items at once usually possess an extensive collection of jewelry clasps. Whenever, they are creating a new piece, they can choose the best ones from their collection and use them in their creation.

Jewelry clasps can be made from various materials such as gold, silver, platinum and cheaper metals such as aluminum, tungsten and vermeil. Some of the other options include leather, nylon and plastic. Artists can choose jewelry clasps that match their chain or threading wire or they can also choose a clasp to create contrast.

Clasps for jewelry are widely available today, but information on the various types is quite limited. In this post, we will look at the main types of jewelry clasps available on the market.
Lobster - has a simple design and can be used for a variety of jewelry pieces. However, they are not ideal for people with arthritis or jewelry pieces that will be tightly fastened.

Toggle - these are available in a variety of shapes and sizes such as triangles and hearts which allows you the freedom to match the clasps with the shape of the beads.

Buttons - buttons make great clasps if you use them with shanks or holes. They are made of many different types of materials such as ceramics and plastic.
Magnetic - this is a perfect option for those who find it difficult to fasten and unfasten their jewelry items. To fasten, all you need to do is get the ends together and pull away when you want to remove the jewelry.
Tube bar - these are great for multistrand jewelry pieces. They are also very easy to use.

Ribbon - if you are looking to give your necklace or bracelet an elegant look, you can use ribbon clasps. Although they are not a practical closure, they can provide a wonderful finish for your necklace or bracelet.

Beaded bead - another modern way of fastening your handmade jewelry pieces is with the use of beaded beads. These can be used as clasps for cuffs and bracelets. There are a number of websites from where you can purchase beaded beads to use as clasps if you are not a perfect beadweaver.

Hooks - these are frequently used for lanyards and some also include a swivel. You can buy bulk hooks if you specialise in lanyards.

Barrel - these are perfect for necklaces because they are delicate and light. These are also easier to use than spring and lobster clasps.

Are you looking to buy quality jewelry clasps? If you are, then visit us at pandahall.

Use Earring Settings To Create Your Own Pair Of Stud Earrings

Jewelry making is fun and it is a hobby that many people enjoy. Beginner jewelry makers usually concentrate on bracelets and necklaces because these types of jewelry are easy to make. To make bracelets and necklaces, all you need is a threading wire, some beads, clasps to hold the two ends together and pliers. You can never go wrong when you make simple jewelry such as bracelets and necklaces because no matter which length of wire you cut or which size of beads you choose, the finished piece will always look nice and the finished piece will always be wearable.

For many jewelry designers, one of the most difficult types of jewelry to create is stud earrings. This is the reason, not many jewelry designers choose to create them. Stud earrings are mostly created by highly experienced designers. But, you wouldn't know how good a designer you are until you create your first piece right? Creating your own pair of stud earrings require you to have the right tools and supplies of the correct size. If you have the right type of earring settings, you can create your own unique pair of stud earrings. Given below are some tips on choosing the right earring settings and creating your own stud earrings.

When it comes to earring settings for your stud earrings, there are a number of options to choose from. The three main types of settings include:
3 prong setting - if you want to achieve an elegant look and the best fit, then this type of setting is the best for you. The gemstone will set low in the basket and since there is less metal on the sides and top of the setting, it will not obstruct the beauty of your gemstone.

4 prong setting - these are also ideal if you are looking to achieve the best fit. These are easily available from jewelry stores and online retailers. When you use this setting, your gemstone is cradled around the circumference making it appear as if the stone is sitting in a basket.

Crown style setting - these are not usually desired by jewelry designers because it gives a droopy appearance due to its style which pushes the gemstone far away from the ear. In addition, these types of earring settings are made using a high density metal which gives an undesirable heavy look.

The setting that you use for your stud earring will largely depend on the design and style of the particular piece. A complicated setting such as a 4 prong setting is desirable to create intricate and ornate designs. However, the choice of settings also depends on the size of the gemstones. Using a four prong setting with a small gemstone will overwhelm the gemstone and using a three prong setting for a large gemstone will not be secure enough.

The material of the earring setting will depend on the type of gemstone you are using. For example, if you want to create a pair of diamond stud earrings, you can choose white gold or yellow gold settings. However, if you are experimenting with cheaper duplicates, then you can choose silver, gold plated or silver plated settings.

Are you looking to buy quality earring settings? If you are, then visit us at Pandahall where you can find a huge range of quality wholesale jewelry supplies.

Tips On Buying Wholesale Acrylic Beads

Jewelry designers often use wholesale lots of beads to create fashion jewelry pieces. When beads are bought in bulk, it presents significant savings over buying them as individual pieces. These days, wholesale acrylic beads are available in many different designs. They are available to meet almost every style preference of crafters. There are a number of websites where you can find a huge variety of wholesale acrylic beads as well as mixed lots for jewelry making.
When buying acrylic beads, crafters have the choice of buying single strands or bulk lots. Buying wholesale lots is beneficial if you are looking to create multiple pieces of jewelry at a time because it helps save money.

Acrylic is a synthetic material and has a number of applications today. Because acrylic is widely available, it is used in the manufacture of beads used in jewelry making. But before buying, there are a number of things that you must look.

Shape and size - these beads are available in every shape imaginable. Some of the popular ones include round, oval, triangular, oblong and cubes. As a crafter, you can benefit by buying wholesale acrylic beads in a variety of shapes and sizes. Sometimes, the size of the beads is not provided on the retailer's website and it can become quite difficult to make a choice. If size is an important consideration, you can ask the seller to place the bead next to a dime or quarter and send a picture of it. This can help you gauge the exact size of the bead.

When making bracelets and anklets, it is always best to use beads of the same size and therefore you must find out if the wholesale lot contains beads of one size or various sizes. But, if you are looking to create necklaces and earrings, you can choose wholesale lots of mixed sizes as beads of different sizes add visual flair to these types of jewelry items.

Theme - if you are a crafter who likes to create jewelry centered on themes, then you can search online and look for stores that sell such beads. There are a number of themes that are popular these days. Holiday themes are one of them.

Style - when you browse online, you will see that most beads are listed by style. Although experienced crafters will know what the different styles are, novice crafters will need guidance in this area to help them to choose the right set. Some of the popular styles are faceted beads, seed beads, bicone beads, Czech beads and lampwork beads.

Color - when buying wholesale acrylic beads, you also have the option to shop by color. You can narrow down your search based on your color preference. But, be sure to read the seller's full description of beads before you make a purchase. Sometimes, pictures don't do justice to the real things and colors may appear different on the screen than they are in real life. Ask the seller questions if you are unsure of their color.

Are you looking to buy quality wholesale acrylic beads? If you are, then visit us at pandahall.com.

Tips For Buying Wholesale Glass Beads

Handcrafted glass beads are an extremely popular jewelry component. These days, you will find glass beads in almost every type of jewelry, whether it is earrings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants or anklets. Jewelry made from these beads is sold in local jewelry stores and on the internet.

Since most types of glass beads are handmade, the quality of the beads often depends on the expertise of the artisan. When choosing wholesale glass beads for jewelry creation, it is important to pay attention to its style. However, the style is not the only thing that you need to consider. There are many other factors to look at when buying beads made of glass in bulk.

When looking for wholesale beads, you will come across many sets that you may love. But, how do you choose? Is there anything that you need to look at beyond the initial eye appeal? Surely there is and in this article, we will look at some of the important things that you need to consider when buying them.

The ends of the beads are quite important. Look out for sharp edges because quality ones will not have them. If they do, you can consider going to the next shop. You must look for ends that are indented or puckered. The reason you should not consider beads with sharp ends is that they can easily cut through your beading wire or thread.

Do the beads have dots? If so, they must be well anchored on the beads. But, it can be quite hard to determine this when buying wholesale glass beads online. Therefore, you must pay close attention to the pictures provided. The dot should not appear as a mushroom because quality beads will have the dot top larger than the dot base. The dot can pop off if it is not anchored properly.

Chill marks are circular ridges on the bead surface and this is often caused when molten glass comes into contact with a cold tool. These marks can be removed if the beads are heated carefully. Chill marks take away from the appeal of the beads and when buying beads in wholesale, always ensure that they don't have chill marks.

Quality glass beads will be perfectly encased and should have very little bubbles. Sometimes, bubbles are added intentionally to make the beads look beautiful. But, if they are unintentional, it means the beads are of poor quality.

The color of the beads and the cost are other factors that you must consider. The color must complement the other elements of your beading project and how much you spend will depend on your budget. The cost of the beads usually depends on the manufacturer and the technique that has been used in its creation. Frit rolled pressed beads are easy to make and therefore they should be priced accordingly.
However, if the beads consist of details such as dots, stringer, complex twisties or murrini, then those will be expensive. Moreover hand shaped beads such as round beads, barrels and bicones are harder to make than pressed beads and these will carry a slightly higher price tag as well.

Are you looking to buy quality wholesale glass beads? If you are, then visit us at Pandahall where you will find a wide range of wholesale beads.

How To Choose The Best Bracelet Clasps

When it comes to jewelry such as bracelets, the clasp is everything. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right one when designing your own jewelry.
You may be looking for the perfect bracelet clasp when you buy ready-made jewelry or when you want to create your own jewelry design. Whatever it is, the choice of clasps is an important thing to consider.

Bracelet clasps are functional components and are an integral element in every design. They make it possible for the two ends to come together and fit nicely around your wrist. But it is essential that the ease of use is also considered. Has it ever happened to you that you bought a bracelet because it looks beautiful, but you found it hard to fasten it around your wrist because of the tiny spring clasp it had and gave up the idea of wearing it altogether?
The clasps used in bracelets and other types of jewelry can tell a lot about the quality of the piece. So whether you are looking to buy a ready-made bracelet or bracelet clasps to create your own jewelry, it is essential that you make the right choice. If you are looking to make your own creations, here are some tips on how to choose the best bracelet clasps.

First of all, you must choose clasps based on the type of beads you will use in the creation of the bracelet. You must pay careful attention to the diameter of the beads and choose a clasp that resembles this aspect. A studier bracelet clasp is ideal for large stone beads because it will help hold the bracelet securely. To enhance the overall design of your bracelet, choose a decorative clasp. But, if you don't want the clasp to overpower the jewelry, you can choose a subdued design.

Bracelet clasps are available in many different materials including silver plated, copper plated, nickel plated, sterling silver filled, rhodium plated, gold plated, gold filled, solid gold, sterling silver, pewter, vermeil, solid gemstone, stainless steel and many others. The choice of material will largely depend on the material used for beading. It will also depend on the type of beads you will use in your creation.

Bracelet clasps that are made of gold, silver or precious stones may have contemporary, classic or vintage style. But, the designs that are available include push clasp, spring ring, lobster, fish hook, magnetic clasp, bar clasp, screw clasp and many more.

When choosing bracelet clasps, consider the balance between color and size of the clasps and beads. Another important thing that you need to consider is how secure the clasp is. Magnetic clasps are perfect for bracelets but, since they cannot support heavy weight, they must not be used with larger and heavier beads. Similarly, the fish hook clasp is quite secure, but most people find it difficult to fasten. Therefore when choosing, you must consider ease of wear, security and style.

The finish of the bracelet clasp is another thing that needs to be considered. A good clasp should withstand hundreds of uses. It should allow the jewelry to sit comfortably around the wrist and should have a smooth surface.

Are you looking to buy quality bracelet clasps? If you are, then visit us at pandahall where you will find jewelry supplies wholesale.

Tips To Consider When Buying Wholesale Cabochons

For a number of jewelry makers, cabochons are a favorite type of stone. They are extremely popular these days because they are versatile and are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit all jewelry making needs. When it comes to buying cabochons, there are many choices available due to their different sizes, colors, shapes and types of stones making it really difficult to choose the right one. On the other hand, professional jewelry makers buy cabochons and other jewelry making supplies in bulk lots and for this reason, they need to be extra careful when choosing them.

If you are a jewelry maker and are looking to buy wholesale cabochons, here are some tips that you need to consider.

Size really matters when creating hand-made jewelry. Whether you are looking to create rings, bracelets, earrings or necklaces, the size of cabochons matter because it can either enhance wearability or degrade wearability. The cabochons must be large enough so that they fit into the setting. They must also be visible to enhance the overall look of the jewelry pieces. In addition, consider buying wholesale cabochons which are lightweight and can easily be incorporated into the design. The cabochons being lightweight will also ensure that it does not cause discomfort to the wearer.

Another thing to consider is whether you are buying cabochons for men's jewelry or women's jewelry. For example, men's jewelry such as rings can include slightly larger stones than women's rings. Special attention must be given if you are looking to create earrings because larger cabochons will be too heavy for the earlobe to support.

Some other things to consider when buying wholesale cabochons are:
• The type of jewelry and the body part it will be worn on. The body part must be able to support the weight of the jewelry.
• The personality of the people. Are you looking to create cabochon jewelry for people who are bold and flashy or people who prefer jewelry items that are more subtle?
• The overall style of the jewelry. Larger cabochons and elements are part of modern jewelry styles. On the other hand, Victorian jewelry includes delicate designs in its creations. Therefore, it is essential to consider the overall style when choosing wholesale cabochons.

You must remember that not all cabochons are created equal. Although the designs may look pretty, they may not be easy to use with your style. Therefore, you must be careful when you buy bulk lots. Sometimes, bulk lots contain a variety of shapes, sizes and styles and sometimes, they contain a single shape and size. Therefore, if you are looking to create the same type of jewelry, then you must choose a lot that contains the same size and shape of cabochons. If you will be creating different designs, then going with a mixed lot of wholesale cabochons is the best idea. No matter which option you go with, you must always check their shape, the sides of the stone, the front of the stone as well as the back of the stone before buying.

Are you looking to buy quality wholesale cabochons? If you are, then visit us at pandahall wholesale.

A Brief Guide To Buying Bracelet Making Supplies

Jewelry making is an art and a popular hobby for many people. In fact, there are people who have turned this hobby into a side business. Most do it as their primary business too. It is quite rewarding to see your designs being bought and worn by customers. But jewelry making is not as easy as it may look. To get started, it is essential to know the basics and have the right tools and supplies. You must note that whether you are looking to start a jewelry making business or want to do it as a hobby, there is going to be an initial expense in obtaining tools and materials needed for the job.

In order to choose the right type of tools and jewelry making supplies, it is essential to decide which type of jewelry you want to start with. For beginners, it is a good idea to start with bracelet making because bracelets require less supplies and basic tools.

There is a number of bracelet making kits available which you can use to complete a few pieces of jewelry and gain some experience. These kits come with instructions, beads, stringing materials and the necessary findings you need to create basic designs. Once you become familiar, you can expand your skills and technique and make use of advanced tools and supplies to create unique bracelet designs.

But, to begin with, one of the first things that you will need is stringing materials. You can use wire, thread or bracelet cord to weave beads for your bracelet. You must remember that stringing materials come in various textures, and thicknesses to provide durability, style and strength. While jewelry cord is best to start with because they do not fray, you can also consider jewelry thread which is available in silk, resin materials and monofilament. Jewelry wire is also an option for beginner artists.

Other bracelet making supplies that you will need is beads, jewelry findings and basic jewelry making tools. These days, there are many different types of beads available.

They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The material they are made of range from plastic and acrylic to gold and gemstones. For a beginner artist, it is essential to stick to bracelet making supplies which are cheap. In this case, plastic beads or acrylic beads should be chosen. You can also consider wood beads because they are widely available and are quite affordable.

There are many different types of findings you can incorporate in your bracelet design. Jewelry findings are elements which help hold beads in place, aid in removal or application of a piece and also form the design of the jewelry. Basically, there are three types of findings you can consider. These include functional findings, decorative findings and hybrid findings.

The tools that you will need to make your bracelet depend on the type of bracelet and its design. For a simple bracelet, you will need a ruler, flush cutter if you are using wire, round nose pliers to make loops in wire, nylon-jaw pliers to straighten wire and trays and boards to store your bracelet making supplies.

Are you looking to buy quality bracelet making supplies? If you are, then visit us at pandahall where you will find all the necessary jewelry making supplies.

Use Slide Charms To Create Stunning Handmade Jewelry

There are many different types of slide charms available today which can be used to make cute and stunning handmade jewelry. Slide charms are available in various shapes such as hearts, animals, flowers, numbers and even alphabets. The brightly colored slide charms can make any design more charming and stunning.

Today, charm jewelry is extremely popular among the youngsters. However, they are suitable for people of all ages. Jewelry fans show a lot of interest in charm jewelry rather than those which are plain. Adding beautiful charms can make any piece of jewelry gorgeous and enhance its overall beauty. As we know, there is a huge variety of slide charms available on the market today and with so many different types to choose from, it is not easy to find the right piece. If you are planning to give your personal style a makeover with these charms, then given below are few tips on how to use these charms to create stunning handmade jewelry.

As the name suggests, slide charms are used in jewelry just by sliding the piece onto the chain, thread or leather cord. This means, you can easily change them to suit different outfits and give your jewelry a whole new look.

These kinds of charms are made from a variety of materials including gold, silver, gemstones, base metals, acrylic, plastic, etc. When choosing, it is essential to consider the type of jewelry it will be used on. For example, if you are looking to insert it on a gold chain bracelet, you can choose gold charms or those made of gemstones. However, if it is for a leather cord necklace or bracelet, then you can consider acrylic or plastic charms. Since there are many different colors and designs available, you can hand-make your jewelry from scratch and interlink the charms to tell the tale that you want.

Just like their traditional counterparts, slide charms can also spell out a name or a message. They can also showcase the wearer's sentiments and interests. You can create theme bracelets with these charms or something unique that can help you make a fashion statement. There are countless ways in which slide charms can be used in jewelry making.

Using them to create handmade jewelry can also make lovely gifts for families and friends. There are a number of websites and magazines where you can get design ideas and inspiration from. Being creative when using these charms in your jewelry making will allow you to enjoy your beading project and build stunning jewelry pieces.

Are you looking to buy quality slide charms? If you are, then visit us at pandahall.com.

How To Take Care Of Your Jewelry Made Of European Beads

Jewelry made from European beads is available from some of the famous jewelry companies today. European bead jewelry is an innovative jewelry trend, but it is quite a surprise that not much information is available on the internet regarding its care and cleaning. These days, there are many different types of European beads available and the design options for necklaces, bracelets and anklets are limitless. As we know, these beads can be made from different types of materials such as solid gold, plated gold, sterling silver, base metal as well as glass and therefore the care and cleaning procedure largely depends on the material it is made from.
Here's a look at how you can take care of your jewelry made of European beads.
If the material it is made of is glass, then the best way to clean it is using a damp cloth. If you use an ultrasonic cleaner, you will lose the lustre of the beads. But, you must also keep in mind that you must not immense the jewelry in soap solution, although it is recommended to use a mild soap solution and a soft damp cloth to clean it.
European beads made of sterling silver will tarnish if they are not worn regularly. Tarnish occurs naturally when the silver part of the beads is exposed to sulfides preset in the air. This process makes the jewelry appear darker. If you want your jewelry to remain bright and shiny, you must place your jewelry in a bowl of Pyrex dish that has been lined with aluminum foil. Next, you must add boiling water over the jewelry and add a tablespoon of baking soda. A plastic or wooden spoon is recommended to stir the jewelry and allow the baking soda to come into contact with the aluminum foil. Leave this aside for few minutes and then remove the jewelry and rinse and pat dry. Using polishing cloth and silver dips may help remove the tarnish, but these are not recommended because they can ruin the finish of the European beads.
If it is gold and gold-filled jewelry, the best way to clean it is with special cleaning compounds that can be purchased from your local jewelry store.
In the case of base metals, it is quite hard to clean the beads. This is because, these beads do not contain a protective sealer and they tend to discolor easily. But, you must stay away from commercial cleaners as they can ruin the beads. It is said that prevention is better than cure and therefore, it is essential that you protect your jewelry before it becomes discolored because this reaction is irreversible. To prevent discoloration, keep your jewelry away from hairsprays, chemicals and perfumes. You must also avoid moisture as much as possible.
Jewelry that is made from European beads must be cleaned on a regular basis so they look fresh every time you wear them.
Are you looking to buy quality European beads? If you are, then visit us at pandahall.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Making Clay Beads At Home

Polymer clay is used in the creation of clay beads. Once you get the hang of working with the polymer clay you will be able to craft clay beads easily for use in your jewelry beading projects, and other decorative projects.
You have to soften a small amount of the polymer clay when you begin the process of maing the clay beads. Take a square of the material and soften it before flattening it with the palm of your hand. Once you have the material flattened you can use a pasta machine to create sheets of the substance that are uniform in thickness.

To make your clay beads different colors you should use several colors of polymer clay and make sheets out of each color. Stack the different colors on top of each other, and then roll the entire stack into a tube, like a snake.
You have to make the sheets of polymer clay thinner as you increase the number of them that will be included in the creation of the beads. Once you have the stack of sheets rolled up you can slice the polymer clay to make the individual clay beads.

You should use a piece of twenty two gauge wire to create a hole in the center of each of your new beads. You must make sure that the wire is inserted completely through each of the clay beads you have created. As you complete the making of the holes in the center of the pieces set them on a cookie sheet.
You will need to preheat your oven to 275 degrees before you bake the pieces. Once the oven has reached the correct temperature you will bake the clay beads between twenty and forty-five minutes, or until they dry out, and harden.
You cannot use the beads until they have been coated in a special clay glaze. You need to apply the glaze to the portion of the beads that is showing, and then allow them to dry completely before you roll them over to coat the other side in the glaze.

Once you have completed the creation of the beads you will be able to make many different jewelry items, and other craft items out of them. Because you control the thickness, the color, and the shape of the beads you will have unique items unlike anything anyone else in your area is using for jewelry creation.

Learning to make your own polymer clay creations, and wood beads, and other types of beads, for use in your jewelry designs, will give you a great sense of accomplishment. You will be proud of the pieces you create, and you will feel as if you have truly been the designing architect behind the pieces.

You can use the techniques that you know to help children design their own beads. Once they have designed their own beads they can help you to fashion them into pieces of jewelry. They will learn a skill that is quickly being replaced by plastic creations, and they will carry that knowledge with them throughout their lives.

Most clay beads that are made at home are made from polymer clay. You can use an old pasta machine to help you create thin sheets of the material, and then combine the sheets to create the clay beads. You can get more information at www.pandahall.com.

Facts About Wholesale Cabochons

Most beads are faceted by someone cutting the stones so that the cuts will capture and reflect the light in a unique way. The faceting of the stones makes the items prettier to look at, and often the faceting increases the value of the stone. Wholesale cabochons are gemstones that are not faceted.

Wholesale cabochons are shaped, and then polished, so that they pick up, and reflect the light. The wholesale cabochons are generally flat on one side because they are not faceted. The tops of these beads, or stones, are usually convex.
One of the reasons that wholesale cabochons are shaped and polished instead of being faceted is because the stone they come from is too soft. Soft stones are very easy to scratch. Silicon dioxide from dust, and grit, will scratch the soft stone and leave them less attractive. When a stone measures lower than a seven on the Mohs hardness scale it will more than likely be turned into cabochons.
Some wholesale cabochons are created so that they will show the star, or eye, that is present in the stone. When stones have been faceted the star, or eye, will be obscured, but when the stones are shaped and polished with the star, or eye, in mind the result is star sapphires, chatoyant stones, and cat's eye chrysoberyl.

The favorite shape for these beads is an ellipse. A round cut, or cut of other shapes, will not make the prominence of the star, or eye, look as appealing as the ellipse does. Cabochons that are being used on watches may break the cutting rule and be made round. The pieces are cut from slabs of rock using a slab saw.
Once there is a slab of rock cut off the larger piece the craftsman will use a template to draw a shape they want to extract from the rock. This template is put into position so that the very best of the stone can be made prominent in the final piece.

Grinders and smaller saws are used to cut closer to the lines that were drawn in place by the template. When the piece has been cut down close to the lines that were drawn it may be attached to a stick so that the craftsman has more control over the item while they are using the saws, and grinders, to perfect the piece.
These items are sold in shops that carry jewelry making beads, stones, wires, and clasps. People who create necklaces often choose the cabochons as the center stone of the piece of jewelry. The cabochon becomes the center of attraction on the necklace, and lesser stones are used to accent them.

Buying these items online allows jewelry crafters to save a great deal of money on them. Online merchants do not charge as much as the brick and mortar merchants do. People who buy their cabochons online get them for a better price than people who walk into shops in their tows to purchase their items.

Wholesale cabochons are not faceted like most other stones are. Wholesale cabochons can be purchased online for less money than when you shop at brick and mortar shops. You can get more information from panda hall.

Tips For Saving Money While Buying Wholesale European Beads

Jewelry makers may recognize these beads better by the fact that they have larger center holes than the beads made anywhere else. Many people use these items in the creation of jewelry items, and finding better prices on wholesale European beads is a goal of many people.

Wholesale European beads are common items that you find online at many different merchants. The wholesale European beads are some of the most popular for making jewelry items because the hole in the middle of the bead is larger than the holes found in similar items from other locations.
One of the best ways to save money buying wholesale European beads is to buy these items in bulk. Many merchants will sell items for less money per piece when you buy large amounts. Buying in bulk can save you as much as forty five percent on the price of the average beads, clasps, wire, and charms, used in jewelry making.

Shopping after holidays for special wholesale European beads can also save you a lot of money. Just before a holiday the merchants will place items up for sale that are unique to the holiday. Once the holiday is past the merchants have a difficult time selling the special holiday beads, so they lower the price of the items.

The merchants can afford to lower the price of the item as long as they do not sell them for less than they paid for them. Many people shop for items like gift wrapping paper, trim a tree decorations, and Christmas ornaments, in this manner. When the season is over the merchant needs to sell the remaining stock they have in order to get back the money they have invested in them. This is the perfect time to shop for things like wholesale European beads.

There are some people who make jewelry that form jewelry cooperative and approach the problem of buying their supplies as a group instead of as individuals. Individuals may not have the capitol to buy thousands of one particular size, shape, and color, of bead, to receive the giant bulk savings that are possible. A group of people can split the cost up and this makes it possible for each individual to get the items they need at a lower cost.

When you join one of these groups you may also find that the members trade, or swap, beads to save money. If you have a large number of one size, color, and shape, of bead, you might be able to trade some of them for beads of a different color from another crafter.

A lot of people get into the jewelry making craft and then they lose interest. When these crafters lose interest in the craft they often have supplies left that they need to sell. You can find these items on many of the auction sites like eBay. When people sell these items they often sell them for a lot less than what they cost in the stores. You can get some awesome deals buying other peoples surplus crafting supplies.

Wholesale European beads are very popular items because the large hole beads are favorites among jewelry makers. Shopping after holidays might save you a lot of money on wholesale European beads. You can get more information at pandahall.com.

Choosing The Right Necklace Clasps For Your Pieces

When you are making jewelry you want to choose the right components so that people can wear your items with confidence. You do not want to put the wrong necklace clasps on your items and have your jewelry fall off of the necks of the wearers.

Choosing the right necklace clasps will entail you thinking about the material the item is fashioned from, the type of person, or activities the person that will be wearing it will be engaging in, and the average age of the person that will be wearing the item.

There are five basic types of necklace clasps available for you to choose from. These are:

• The box necklace clasps are usually rectangular in shape, but they may also be square. They have a tongue section that will slide into a groove. These fasteners usually can be opened and closed with only one hand so they are very popular. The real reason for their popularity lies in the fact that they fasten tightly and they are very hard to come undone so people do not lose as many necklaces that have these fasteners. These are great fasteners to place on jewelry you make for children to wear.

• The hook necklace clasps consists of a hook that slips through a link in a chain, or through a ring to form the necklace. They are easy to operate so they are great for the elderly wearer, but they come undone very easily so they are risky for anyone that is going to be active to wear.

• The spring necklace clasps are possibly the most secure of all necklace fasteners. They are made up of two separate rings. One of the rings will have a nub that can be pressed causing the ring to separate so that it can be slipped over the other ring and form a linked bond. They can be tricky to open and close when they are small, but they are secure, and they hold in place when with the jewelry is put under stresses.

• The lobster claw necklace clasps work on the same basic principle that the spring clasps work on. The difference is that the spring clasps have two rings that hook together, and on the lobster clasp there is one oval shaped section with a spring latch that will open when a nub is compressed. Necklaces that have these clasps can be worn when you are engaged in just about any activity because the clasps are secure and hold tightly. These clasps are great for jewelry that will be worn by children and the elderly.

• The toggle necklace clasps consist of a straight bar that fits through a ring. These are designed so that the weight of the necklace will hold the item shut. Necklaces that feature these clasps should be worn when you will not be engaged in strenuous activities. It is very easy for the straight bar to slip out of the ring causing the item of jewelry to fall.

Necklace clasps come in five basic designs. Most necklace clasps are not designed to keep the jewelry in place during vigorous activity. You can get more information from pandahall.