| Making your own bead jewelry is a creative hobby | | | | store would also offer a number of beginning classes |
| that allows you to produce unique pieces for | | | | that would help you learn basic techniques (if there is |
| yourself, family and friends. Here is how you can get | | | | no bead shop in your town, some introductory books |
| started.If you ever asked yourself "couldn't I do that | | | | such as The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beading will |
| myself?" as you looked through rows of bead | | | | have to do).Start with a simple project, such as a |
| bracelets, necklaces or earrings at a trendy boutique, | | | | bracelet or basic necklace, and do not go overboard |
| the answer is yes. Beading is a creative and | | | | with expensive beads and findings (clasps etc.). I |
| entertaining hobby that not only will have you | | | | know you are probably itching to use Swarovski |
| produce unique, handmade items of jewelry, but will | | | | crystal, sterling silver and semi-precious beads, but |
| also be a source of amazing gift ideas for family and | | | | you can work up to that later. Some stores will even |
| friends.The first step would be to find a good local | | | | offer packaged starter kits that may include a |
| bead shop. While there are wonderful mail order | | | | beading board (which helps you with project layout |
| catalogs and websites that will sell you all the | | | | and measurements), some basic tools, beads, wire, |
| supplies, nothing substitutes for the support and | | | | findings and a how-to-book. |
| advice of experienced sales personnel. Ideally, this | | | | |