Where Is A Good Place To Start In The Craft Of Jewelry Making?

The first thing I want to write about here is what warrants the label as Jewelry. I am going to take a look at Wikipedia and get a complete definition for Jewelry. The definition there says it is any item worn as a personal adornment. It does include the wearing of earrings, and other body piercings and brooches attached to your clothing but, it does not include buttons on a garment. There is a long history included at that link, which might also be interesting for you to read but, I will let the definition stand alone. I do not intend to get into the history of jewelry but would rather investigate the various materials that are involved in jewelry making. My purpose is to better define what may be interesting for each, individual enthusiast and, to help you explore the various ways you can become enlisted in this craft for fun or as a hobby.

The earring in this photo dates back some 2,000 years ago. What a timeless work and stands as a class act even in todays high tech standards. This was most recently found just last year(2008) near a parking lot in Jerusilum. It makes my skin creep to think about where this beautiful piece of work came from and who it has adorned..... A magnificent example of timeless creation.

You can read all about it, in this National Geographic article. It has to be one of the most amazing stories depicting jewelry from ancient times.

The mediums applied to this craft almost seem endless. Traditionally we think of gems and precious metals when we think of jewelry but, there are so many other forms of jewelry made that the array of materials is seemingly endless. I personally like the jewelry that was fashioned by natives, from all parts of the world, dating back as far as we can go.

Much of these types of adornments were made from the materials common to the time. Bones, shells, animal hide, seeds and feathers, were all utilized across the globe. Using what they had available, craftsmen from different parts of the world, created magnificent works of art. These same jewelry ideas are often mimicked today. Many archaeological pieces have been preserved and serve as wonderful depictions of cultural customs and traditions.

In fact, jewelry was often adapted to certain traditions and customs as a gesture in celebrations in all parts of the world. To honor and celebrate special traditions and events within different groups of people, jewelry became recognized as a symbol of status and achievement. The best example I can think of is the wedding ring and others would be the crowns of kings and queens. Jesus was said to have worn a crown of thorns during the Crucifixion.

The materials for jewelry making, being so diverse and extreme in comparison, could leave anyone overwhelmed when trying to decide which one to try their hand at crafting. It is best to keep in mind that many of the oldest forms of jewelry were produced by people who were masters at what they did. Just by viewing some of the photos I have placed here, it is easy enough to see that these works are quite involved.

It is also important to note that much practice could put you at a level where producing fine pieces, is only a matter of time spent. With that said, I suggest that anyone wanting to create their own jewelry start with materials that are readily available. Play around with the materials that are easily attainable before spending a great deal of money on expensive supplies.

Relatively inexpensive materials and a few simple tools can be purchased as needed to begin exploring this craft. There are also kits available for those who are not quite ready to go all out, without a little, test of the water, so to speak. Start simple and if the idea of making your own adornments keeps your attention, then by all means, go with it and, grow into this craft as you learn.

Go on line and shop around for materials to work with. Make sure to hit the hobby and craft stores in your area as well. I feel that actually seeing the physical supplies and materials helps more than looking through catalogs and websites. My reasoning here, there is something to that close up and personal encounter with the beads, feathers, metals, seeds, wires, cords and clasps and, all the other elements that will create a spontaneity in your choice of supplies. The visual, as well as the touch, will provide a certain inspiration of it's own. This is important to me because I find a certain sort of inspiration with the physical encounter.

Precious metals and gems are certainly a mainstay when it comes to creating fine pieces of jeweled adornments. These can be very costly for the novice enthusiast. Not to worry, there is also an abundance of lesser valued materials available to make your own necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other miscellaneous embellishments. One has to look no further than the local discount store in order to find these materials.

Shop around. Garage sales and flea markets are also good places to keep your eyes peeled for jewelry supplies that got tossed to the side. Often times, people think they will get involved with this craft and then give it up. That is where you can come behind and pick up the left overs for a big savings. You can also try collecting natural items such as feathers and stones. These are available from many different locations. I use to gather nice feathers from friends who raised exotic birds. Keep that in mind too.

What ever materials you decide to start with, be sure to start out small and grow in to the craft. You will find much more fun and satisfaction from your adventure in to jewelry making if you take your time and explore all avenues carefully. The newest fashion features items made for beginners to produce lovely works, as evident in the video below. This makes for more fun when you are just starting out in this craft.

My fellow hubber, SweetiePie has a knack for making some nice jewelry and has written several hubs to help anyone interested in making their own pieces. please be sure to take a look at what she has to offer.The first one I would suggest reading is SweetiePie's, Creating Fashionable Homemade Jewelry.

SweetiePie also wrote a "how to" on designing with heart pendants that is very informative. Read that one for additional ideas on this subject.