For me, it starts with gemstone beads.....and progresses from there. How about you guys?

My favorite component changes often. First, it was TierraCast lead-free pewter, then twisted crimp tubes, then the 2 4-mm beads on either side of the twisted crimp tubes, then the Snapeez jumprings or the heavy jumprings from 123Beads, then the wire guards. Now my toggles and other closures look more professional with all of these additional components and the necklaces are more comfortable to wear with the 2 4-mm beads on either side of the crimp tubes. I wish I knew about all of these components when I first started beading. I've actually restrung my more expensive necklaces to include them. 

I really love lampwork beads, but as far as findings I would have to say that crimp covers really finish my pieces.  For a while I was into liquid silver (still am, but not as much lately).  Alice

I love chain. It's a great starting point for jewelry, and it's so fashionable right now.

— Lindsay 

Yes, do I like chain. I teach beading at our local senior centers and my chain design was really popular. To keep the total cost of each necklace under $10.00 I purchase many of my supplies from Michaels. I had a great time designing the necklace from Michael's new chain display. Each time I made a sample, it sold right away!  I'd love to sell all of my designs as quickly and as easily as I sold that chain designs.

I'm usually inspired by the beads. Some things just ASK to be put together but lately, I've been loving my wire! Sterling Silver 20 to 16 ga half hard wire is floating my boat and I can't seem to get enough of working with it. Add chain, add beads, or not! I had a commission piece that asked for two colours in particular and when the necklace came to completion, I'd found that I used more silver wire than those two colours and I know that it's to complement an outfit I've seen and it will work, but if she doesn't like it, I'll be looking in my own closet for things to wear with it because I really love it!

 I love chain, wire, and jump rings... jump rings for chainmaille.  

Gemstones and Swarovski crystals are my second favorite... can't have one without the other. I hope I have time to play tonight.

I love gemstones, especially birthstones like aquamarine(my birthstone), amethyst, and sapphire.  I love Tanzanite. I prefer bicones. No AB finish. Joan

I really like gemstones as well(my birthstone is amethyst). But I also like turquoise and garnet. I also LOVE crystals! And I agree, no AB finish.

crystals and seed beads tie

I am on a copper kick lately.  I just love the rustic look of it.  I'm having a little trouble finding my findings (ha! ha!).  Oh well, who doesn't love a challenge.

My other weakness is pendants.  I keep buying unique and unusual pendants whenever and wherever I see them.  Now I have to start creating instead of just hoarding and dreaming.

Laura Z.