hi everyone, i have just discovered how many beautiful beads there are. i love jewelry. so i'm considering getting into this field. i just don't know where to start? i want to learn how to make beaded jewelry. and then if i like it maybe go learn jewelry design.  does anyone have some advice for me. i'd love to hear some. have a magic day. thanks.

 You could start with just the basics...you can invest in a beginner beading book or magazine (Bead Style has fabulous pointers for beginners) and get some ideas from there.

Are you looking for just a jewelry fix, or is this a hobby-career you are interested in?

I would also think about what you want to accomplish...do you want to just make some simple beaded items for yourself and friends, or will this evolve into a passion or new career?

I started with a simple bead kit and made a necklace and earrings out of some crystals. The kit cost about $25.00 from a bead store. Creating that made me invest in a subscription to Bead Style...which led me to online stores and bead shows...which led me to where I am now.

I am an art major, so anything with color gets me going . Beads are definitely colorful and can be addicting.

Be very, very careful cause there is not a 12-step bead program that I am aware of...

Yet!

I started by making earrings.  They can be simple, relatively easy to do and you don't need to invest a lot of money (a few beads, head pins, earwires & a pair of  round-nose pliers).  And they're quick!  I can throw together a pair almost as I'm on my way out the door! 

Beware tho, as this will lead to bracelets, necklaces, chain mail & peyote stitch.  (12-step program?!  Who needs a 12-step program!!)

Thanks for your replies!  and yes if i will like designing jewelry i will want to take it to next next level.i am a jewelry junkie. and i really love art and design. so what better way to make a living. i was thinking about registering for a course how to make beaded jewelry. just to start to get the feel for it. any suggestions? this site is the best! thanks a bunch! 

Tamar,

  I started by taking classes at my LBS. Stringing and wirework. I read a couple of beading mags and look to the websites of bead companies for inspiration. Firemountain Gems has a good inspirational section. Plus some education. Above all, have fun. Joanie

Hello and welcome! It's so great to hear people out there talking about what I love most...

On a personal level, there aren't many bead stores where I live and I can't afford to take courses or classes- financially and cuz my 2 year old is still home with me. I don't mind him destroying my house while I'm beading but having him do that in a bead store is a different story altogether! But I have a great imagination and can figure out almost everything by looking at pictures and galleries online and then bugging the people at the bead store till I find what I want. One of the most useful things I did was make my own Beading Scrapbook. I cut up magazines, print from computer or draw something I saw on TV- I put it all in there and then figure it out later. It's a great way to get ideas and fun to flip through in your spare time.

Wishing you tons of luck!

>>>Be very, very careful cause there is not a 12-step bead program that I am aware of...

Yet!<<<

Bite your tongue. This is one addiction I'm caving in to and never want to give up! Your advice is very good and I'd like to add that the library is a wonderful resource and that's where I got started. Now, mind you I'm a newbie too but this is how I got started. I went to the library and took out Easy Beading Books vol 2 and 3 (they don't have 1 or 4 yet) The projects are simple and easy. I chose simple necklaces and earrings to make then I made a list and went to a local bead store. They were able to help me gather what I needed and show me how to add a crimp. At the beginning you really just need to know how to put the clasps on and what beading wire to use. The beading part is purely up to you and your own creativity. I was amazed just how easy it is to make pretty things for yourself. One other idea is right here on Beadstylemag website. They have videos that show how to do some of the basics.

I agree, start with a class at your local bead store.