The Basics - Tools

Before you start a project or a profession, you'll want to know what you'll need to do it well. So we'll start by talking about the basics. We'll talk about tools, findings, stringing materials and the other things you'll need to make jewelry. This section will be in several parts and then we'll get on to the good stuff - actually making jewelry!


Tools
Just as a carpenter needs tools to build or fix things, so too does a jewelry maker. Yes, you need a tool box too to keep your tools organized - or not, it's up to you :-) So what kind of tools do you need? Lets talk about them.

Jewelry pliers - There are several different jewelry pliers out there, at least 12 by my count, maybe many more. Some of them go by different names. Here's a list of the pliers you will use more often, with a brief description of what each one does.



Chain-nose pliers. Used mostly for opening and closing jumprings.


Crimping pliers. Use with crimp beads.




Flat-nose pliers. Use for holding, gripping or bending wire.



Round-nose pliers. Use these to form loops and jumprings.



Side-cutting pliers. Use for cutting soft wires, like precious metal.




As I said earlier, these are just the basic pliers that jewelry-makers use, there are others. The next topic for basic materials is findings. Be sure to check back!