So You Want to Make Jewelry… Part 1

Well-made handcrafted jewelry is all about having the right tools, but when you are just starting out, which ones are essential? There are literally thousands of tools designed specifically for doing all sorts of metal art work, and they all cost money. So the question is: which ones to get first? If you are trying to get started on a budget (and who isn’t, right?), then investing in a starter set that delivers the most bang for the buck is crucial. The tools shown in the photos in this blog are a great place to start. They are the most frequently used tools on your jewelry making journey, and will assist you in most of the basic skills of the craft. Buying good, quality tools will last you a lifetime. Most of the tools shown here are from my own starter set purchased 50 years ago, and they still work great.

If you know what they are, then you can go shopping for them. If, however, you don’t know what they’re called or their function - or the best place to buy them, you have a couple options to get this information. Send me your questions using the form on the contact page. I read and respond to every email, and I respect your privacy. Alternatively, you can purchase my book, Jewelry Casting in the Small Shop: Learning and Teaching the Lost Wax Casting Process. There are several chapters that explain the most basic and frequently used tools in jewelry making – and they are not just used for casting.