Beading and Jewelry Making - Where to start?

[MRBXXXFVVS1]

I'm interested in beading and jewelry making. Any recommendations on where to start? What is the best kit to buy? Where can I find "fine" jewelry quality materials and gemstone beads? Thanks!

 

[stracci2000]

I would start by watching some youtube videos about stringing.
There are alot of good techniques out there, and lots of people with jewelry channels.
This is a good beginner video.

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[Bron357]

I make Dangles as a hobby. There are a number of vendor that sell the findings and pliers and I buy my gemstone beads off eBay. I also look out for “damaged” bead necklaces so I can re use the beads. That’s why I bought the gem haul, for the broken bead necklaces!
Your basic supplies are string (I use fishing line) tube crimps, crimp covers, pliers to close the crimps and end pieces ie a round link and clasp.
Plenty of tutorials on YouTube.
I find it a very relaxing and rewarding hobby, planning out my strand and then assembling it.
I even repaired my broken amethyst necklace and lengthened it using Ethiopian opal beads.