Hi everyone, I'm new this is my first time in any sort of a chat room (already hope I'm doing this right). I am really wanting to start making myself some jewerly, but there are so many books and beads and tools and STUFF that I just get so completly overwhelmed, that I usually end up leaving the store without anything. So far I haven't been able to find a class that is available to my schedule (there usually during the day during the week and I'm working) any suggestions on some basics of what to start with.

 Hi Debbi-

I started by looking at magazines. They tend to be cheaper than the books out there and you may  actually find styles you like. I personally like Bead Style(hence the forum) they have quick and easy designs. Also, there is a book published by Bead Style that has a compilation of previous designs.

I have learned a great deal from this forum(the old one). You can always search the archives for help as well.

Also, feel free to email or post a personal message to me.I will help you.  

Aloha debi.k!

This website is a perfect place to start!  Checkout the "How-To's" and "Videos" buttons in the gray bar near the top of this page.  Also, some of the advertising vendors (Fire Mountain Gems (aka FMG), Jewelry Supply and Rings & Things have wonderful tutorials, projects, reference and resource pages.

My first bracelet was made of two of each pretty bead that caught my eye at a local bead shop, in a 3-color theme.  Not a great pic, but it's still a favorite of mine.  I've since learned the types of each bead and often use it for size references when I'm out shopping (the little green firepolished at the ends are 4mm, the orange ones next are Swarovski crystal rounds 4mm, the yellow Swarovski bicones are 5mm, the bicolor rounds are 6mm and the lampwork flower focal is 8mm.) 

Hope this helps!  ~alohabc 

You may also want to check out your local library. Ours has many current jewelry-making books, but even older books are good sources for basic instruction.

Hello Debi-

Oh please don't be intimidated - Once you begin you will be hooked and beading is such a relaxing hobby for me.  I hope for you as well.  I began with very simple project - 6mm beads and spacers.  I think starting simple was the key.  I started with braclets, then earrings and finally necklaces (they too intimated me because they required so many beads).  My mother and I began this hobby together.  She is eighty years old and almost blind with glaucoma but you cannot believe the beautiful jewelry that she designs and strings!!! It is almost like her vision improves when she beads!!!  Good luck and please let me know if I can help in any way.