Comments

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  doodlesdanz said:

  How strong are the magnetic clasps you have used in the past?  I would invest in some nice heavy duty ones.  The cheapies you can find in craft stores don't really cut it IMO.  Also, I'd stick to hard gemstones to reduce the likelihood of a shattered bead.  Also, wood or coconut beads are great :)

  July 27, 2007 11:14 AM
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  Cathy Jakicic said:

  Thanks. I know the clasps I've purchased recently are a lot stronger than the ones that I used to find, but I don't know if they're the strongest available. Where have you purchased yours?

  Wood is a good idea. I'll have to find painted ones because they do like their jewelry colorful!!

  July 30, 2007 8:37 AM
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  fieldofbeads said:

  I agree that wooden beads are safe for kids.  They are light and also available in various shapes, colors and designs.  You may also consider using Class A acrylic beads.  They almost look like crystals minus the pricey tag.  They also don't break or shatter if you accidentally drop them.  Just be careful not to allow them to scatter on the floor too long because it can cause slips or trips.

  July 31, 2007 6:03 AM
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  MexicoChris said:

  What about the stretch cord for stringing. I made a bracelet for my maid's daughter with that. She is nine.

  As soon as my Firemountain order gets here I will make her some earrings to match.

  August 1, 2007 5:43 PM
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  Cathy Jakicic said:

  I love the Class A acrylic idea - anything that has a crystal-like sparkle and color will go over big with the kids! What's your favorite source.

  I've tried the stretch cord with mixed results - my own fault I think because I used the thinner cord to start off with and little fingers that snap that in a second.

  August 3, 2007 8:58 AM
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  fieldofbeads said:

  I buy my acrylic beads in Quiapo, Manila City because I live in the Philippines.  The bead stores are all along a street.  They sell a wide selection of acrylic beads, among others.

  Clay beads are also safe for children.  There's also a store near my office where they sell an assortment of clay beads with various designs, shapes, and colors.  I combine them with acrylic beads and they just look so attractive.

  August 11, 2007 6:54 AM
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  bevsueden said:

  I know this is a little late, but I read somewhere that one way to make jewelry safer for little ones is to put it together with Spring Rings, instead of the soldered Jump Rings. That way, the spring ring will pull apart if the necklace/bracelet gets caught on something without the beads scattering everywhere.

  August 24, 2007 3:46 PM