Essential How-Tos | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

How to Make Sterling Silver French Ear Wire

Follow along as Lisa Pavelka, award-winning jewelry designer and author, demonstrates how to make French-style ear wires in sterling silver.

Video Length 18:15

Watch Video

Dangle Earrings: Jump Ring Solder Techniques

Follow along as Lisa Pavelka, award winning designer, artist and author, shows you the basics to soldering jump rings.

Video Length 11:43

Watch Video

Firing Metal Clay with a Butane Torch

Award-winning artist Lisa Pavelka shares terminology, techniques and safety tips for firing metal clay with a butane torch.

Video Length 4:17

Watch Video

How To use Anti-Tarnish Strips

Learn how to use anti-tarnish strips to keep your jewelry shining bright.

Video Length 4:29

Watch Video

Learn How to Finish Elastic and Powercord® Jewelry

Learn how to finish elastic and Powercord® jewelry like a pro to create popular gemstone energy bracelets and more.

Video Length 3:11

Watch Video

Sawing Metal

Learn tips and tricks on how to use a jeweler's saw blade on metal.

Video Length 3:45

Watch Video

Using Crimp Tubes with Accu-Flex® Professional Quality Beading Wire

Professionally secure your Accu-Flex stringing designs with handy crimp tubes. Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman demonstrates how in this video tutorial.

Video Length 3:02

Watch Video

Using Crimp Tubes with Cording

Watch as Tammy Honaman, author, jewelry-making expert and educator, shows how easy it can be to use crimp tubes with cord in jewelry designs.

Video Length 2:52

Watch Video

Using Crimp Ends with Accu-Flex® Beading Wire

Crimp ends secure your beading wire and make it easy to add your favorite clasps. Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman walks you through how to use these handy little findings.

Video Length 3:22

Watch Video

Securing a Donut with a Donut Bail

Turn a gemstone or glass donut into an eye-catching pendant with donut bails.

Video Length 2:23

Watch Video

Making a Silk Thread Needle

Follow along to learn how to create a silk thread needle, a helpful technique when hand knotting pearls and other beads.

Video Length 3:27

Watch Video

Making Beads with the Paper Bead Roller

Watch as Tammy Honaman demonstrates how easy it is to create paper beads with the paper bead roller tool and a little Mod Podge.

Video Length 4:26

Watch Video

Using French Wire

French wire is a versatile finding known for protecting thread from wear and tear. Watch as designer Marlynn McNutt shows how to use it with Accu-Flex® wire.

Video Length 2:07

Watch Video

Crochet with Wire: The Chain Stitch

Crocheting isn't just for yarn! Watch this video to learn how to use the chain stitch to incorporate beads and other items into your jewelry designs.

Video Length 3:56

Watch Video

How to Use Ribbon Ends in Jewelry Designs

Finishing your ribbon jewelry is a snap with ribbon ends. Learn how in this helpful video.

Video Length 2:21

Watch Video

Personalize Jewelry Using Steel Letter and Number Punches

Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman walks you through how to add the flair of personalization to metal jewelry with letter and number punches in this handy video.

Video Length 2:53

Watch Video

How to Use a Ring Stretcher

Introducing our user-friendly Tabletop Ring Stretcher, perfect for effortlessly stretching rings up to half a size without the need for heating, making your jewelry crafting a breeze!

Video Length 0:14

Watch Video

How to Open and Lock a Link Lock

In this video, we'll show you how to effortlessly open and lock a Link Lock, providing a secure and solder-free solution for connecting and linking your favorite jewelry components.

Video Length :12

Watch Video

DIY Earrings Using a Disc Cutter

Learn how to use the disc cutter tool with Award winning designer Lisa Pavelka as she creates a pair of crescent moon earrings

Video Length 13:26

Watch Video

Using a Need A Bead Now™ Organizer Tote

The Need A Bead Now organizer tote is so easy to use for securely storing beads, polymer clay canes and other jewelry supplies. Video hosted by internationally renowned polymer clay artist Judy Belcher.

Video Length 0:36

Watch Video

Inserting a Saw Blade into a Jeweler's Saw Frame

Welcome, jewelry enthusiasts! In this video, we'll show you how to expertly insert a saw blade into a jeweler's saw frame, a must-have tool for precision metal sheet cutting in your jewelry-making endeavors.

Video Length 3:12

Watch Video

Using Memory Wire Finishing Pliers

Wyatt White from Beadalon® shows off a wonderful tool for working with memory wire. You'll wonder how you ever designed memory wire jewelry without them.

Video Length 4:30

Watch Video

How to Use the Artistic Wire® Ring and Bracelet Finding Forms™

Wyatt from Beadalon® is here to show you how to make adjustable round rings and oval bangle bracelets with your favorite jewelry-making wire.

Video Length 9:51

Watch Video

Perfect Knots with the Tin Cup Knotter from Beadalon®

Wyatt from Beadalon® demonstrates how the tin cup knotter makes quick-and-easy work of consistently spaced knots.

Video Length 14:49

Watch Video

How to Use the Artistic Wire® Ear Wire Findings Form™

Wyatt, a special guest from Beadalon®, explains how to use the Artistic Wire® Ear Wire Findings Forms™ to create a unique dangle-style pair of earrings.

Video Length 9:11

Watch Video

Basic Wire-Weaving Techniques

Want to get into wire weaving? This how-to video will teach you how three basic wire-weaving patterns.

Video Length 13:00

Watch Video

Basics to Kumihimo

Get creative with beads and the basics of kumihimo, a traditional Japanese braiding technique.

Video Length 27:47

Watch Video

How to Make a Brick Seed Bead Stitch

The brick stitch is ideal for a myriad of seed bead patterns. Watch this video to learn how to incorporate it into your jewelry designs.

Video Length 15:15

Watch Video

Create Your Own Crushed Stone Inlay Jewelry

Make your own gemstone inlay pendant by watching this quick how-to video.

Video Length 1:55

Watch Video

What are Designer Quality Gemstones?

Learn more about our "designer quality" gemstones and what that means for you in this quick video.

Video Length 1:12

Watch Video

How to Create a Bullseye Cane Using Polymer Clay

Learn the basics of creating a bullseye cane with in-house jewelry designer Rose Wingenbach. It's so easy!

Video Length 2:37

Watch Video

How to Use Bead and Pearl Reamers

Sometimes the most beautiful beads have the smallest, roughest drill holes. Watch to learn how to use different types of bead and pearl reamers to fix this common problem.

Video Length 2:09

Watch Video

How to Create the Intermittent Stringing Technique

Watch and learn how to use the sophisticated and simple intermittent stringing technique, also know as a floating necklace, that showcases your beads by incorporating your beading wire into the design.

Video Length 3:24

Watch Video

How to Use Accu-Guard™ Wire Protectors

Not quite sure how to use Accu-Guard wire protectors? This instructional video shows how easy it is to protect your jewelry from wear and tear.

Video Length 1:32

Watch Video

Why I Like Premo! Polymer Clay

Renowned polymer clay artist Christi Friesen explains her favorite qualities of Premo! polymer clay and why it's her top choice for clay creations.

Video Length 4:45

Watch Video

How-To Use Bead Tips

Bead tips give jewelry designs a clean and professional finish. In this video, learn how to use bead tips to conceal and protect knots while creating a secure connection.

Video Length 1:36

Watch Video

How to Add Textured Finishes to Metal

Brush up on your metal-finishing techniques by learning how to add matte and brushed textures to metal by following along with jewelry-maker Hazel Wheaton.

Video Length7:54

Watch Video

How to Straighten Wire

Love wirework, but hate prepping your supplies? This video tutorial from Hazel Wheaton shows you easy, effective ways to straighten out your wire for any project.

Video Length 4:45

Watch Video

Wire Heart Earrings

The minimalist design of these wire heart earrings is perfect as-is or with a few customizations. Follow along with Naomi Fujimoto in this handy how-to video.

Video Length 5:20

Watch Video

Discover the Art of Bead Embroidery

Join Jody Young for "Unlock Your Heart," her 8-part seed bead embroidery video series. It begins with the basics, then moves through other techniques.

Explore Series

How to Make a Simple Loop

Watch as Tammy Honaman, author, jewelry-making expert and educator, shows how easy it is to create simple loops in wirework designs.

Video Length 1:48

Watch Video

How to Create a Diamond Chain Stitch

Follow along with this video to create the diamond chain seed bead stitch. This stitch is ideal for jewelry, hat bands, clothing decorations and more.

Video Length 5:07

Watch Video

How to Use a Wire Jig

A wire jig gives lets you consistently make great shapes from wire. Learn how to make a variety of designs with this how-to video and instructions.

Video Length 4:51

Watch Video

6 Ways to Finish Tubular Bead Stitches

Not quite sure how to bring your tubular bead project to a close? Never fear! Rose is here to teach you 6 great options for putting the finishing touches onto your fabulous beaded pieces!

Video Length 22:12

Watch Video

5 Steps: How to Rehydrate Old Metal Clay

Has your metal clay gone bone-dry? We'll show you how to bring it back to life! LauraLynn demonstrates how in just 5 easy steps: break up, grind, sift, rehydrate and reform!

Video Length 7:17

Watch Video

How to Use Hollow Diamond-Coated Drill Bits

Rose demonstrates the creative potential of diamond-coated core bits. Watch as she transforms materials into wearable jewelry with just a simple drill hole.

Video Length 3:31

Watch Video

Top Six Types of Bails

Explore ice picks, up eyes, donut bails and more! See how these top bail types quickly and easily transform your favorite jewelry-making elements into finished pieces.

Video Length 8:15

Watch Video

How to Cast Resin Pendants

Casting with resin is easy and fun with flexible, silicone molds. Learn how to use these faceted molds to create personalized three-dimensional drops, pendants, wire-wrapping elements and more.

Video Length 5:54

Watch Video

How to Make a Quilter's Knot

Do your knots pull through the material? Try this! Jewelry designer Rose demonstrates how to create a quilter's knot with two easy steps in this handy tutorial.

Video Length 3:04

Watch Video

How to Create a Spiral Rope Stitch

Follow along as Rose shows how to create the spiral rope stitch. This stitch looks elegant and complex, but is actually quite simple to make!

Video Length 5:44

Watch Video

How To Anneal and Texture Metal

Join Patti to learn how to anneal and pickle different metal surfaces before texturing them with specialty hammers.

Video Length 26:18

Watch Video

How to Make Seed Bead Fringe

Follow along with our video instructions and learn how to add fabulous fringe to your seed-beaded creations.

Video Length 11:42

Watch Video

Secrets to Seed Beading: What's In My Seed Beading Tool Kit?

Take a peek inside Rose's seed bead toolbox as you prepare to tackle the projects of her 10-part Secrets to Seed Beads series.

Video Length 13:58

Watch Video

Secrets to Polymer Clay Project 5: Secret Stone Brooch Video

Learn how to create a mysterious brooch in the fifth project of this series. Christi shows you how to create your own polymer clay bezel to capture your favorite cabochon in beautiful details.

Video Length 26:59

Watch Video

Secrets to Polymer Clay Project 4: Art Nouveau Vine Earrings Video

Learn how to bring depth to your sculpted forms with mica powder! You'll be amazed how this simple technique can bring big luster and added interest to your polymer clay pieces.

Video Length 20:17

Watch Video

Secrets to Polymer Clay Project 3: Slab-tastic Earrings Video

Learn how this trendy pattern-making process makes mass-producing details a breeze. Simply roll out your base, create your design and cut!

Video Length 19:59

Watch Video

Secrets to Polymer Clay Project 2: Swirls and Jewels Video

Learn how to marble, twist and blend clay colors to create eye-catching patterns. Then take the detail a step further with jewels and pearls.

Video Length 14:53

Watch Video

Secrets to Polymer Clay Project 1: Strata Beads

Christi Friesen leads us through the first project in the Secrets to Polymer Clay series--strata beads! Learn how to use simple canning and layered slices to easily form mesmerizing patters.

Video Length 13:44

Watch Video

Finishing Memory Wire Jewelry

In this video, we'll explore two stylish methods for completing your Memory Wire jewelry: adding chic ball ends or crafting elegant loops.

Video Length 3:58

Watch Video

Using Twisted Beading Needles

Twisted beading needles offer some major advantages when creating strung jewelry designs. Here are the points you need to know when using these unique and handy beading needles.

Video Length 2:14

Watch Video

How to Set and Remove Faceted Gems

Using your gem setting pliers the right way will make the job easier and reduce the risk of marring your stones and settings.

Video Length 2:14

Watch Video

Making a Wrapped Loop and Double-Wrapped Loop

Use the double wrapped-loop technique to attach a pendant or charm to a soldered loop on a chain for a secure finish. Link double wrapped loops together to create your own chain then finish with your choice of clasp.

Video Length 3:00

Watch Video

How to Use Snap-Tite® Settings

Transform your favorite faceted stones into beautiful pendants with Snap-Tite® settings.

Video Length 3:35

Watch Video

Kato Polyclay™ - The Skinner Blend Technique

The Skinner blend technique has revolutionized the process of blending colors. Learn how to create this gorgeous look with this instructional video.

Video Length 3:05

Watch Video

How-To Use Bead Stoppers™

Want a tool that keeps beads from falling off your jewelry wire or thread? Learn how to use a bead stopper in this how-to video from jewelry artist Katie Hacker.

Video Length 4:30

Watch Video

Using Crimp Covers

Crimp covers provide a professional and stylish way to finish your jewelry. Learn the proper way to use them in this video tutorial and instructions.

Video Length 1:49

Watch Video

Knotting and Knotting Tools

Knots are a key skill for jewelry makers. These videos and tutorials show a range of knots and knotting tools to keep jewelry designs secure and stylish.

Video Length 4:32

Watch Video

How-To Use the Speedy Stringer™

Want to save time and energy on complex beading projects? This video shows you how simple and efficient stringing beads can be with the Speedy Stringer.

Video Length 2:10

Watch Video

Crimp Ends with Cording

Crimp ends are an easy, effective way to finish off cord jewelry designs. Watch this instructional video starring jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman to learn more.

Video Length 3:04

Watch Video

How to Use the Adaptable Eyelet and Rivet Tool Set

Learn how to attach eyelets and/or rivets to metal sheet in this helpful video.

Video Length 0:25

Watch Video

Learn How to Create a Polymer Clay Leaf Cane

Join us for this easy-to-follow polymer clay tutorial and master the art of making a stunning polymer leaf cane using the Skinner blend technique. Discover the secrets behind crafting intricate and beautiful leaf canes that will add a touch of nature-inspired elegance to your polymer clay projects.

Video Length 11:50

Watch Video

Rock and Jewelry Tumbling Videos

Learn the basics of rock tumbling and how easy it is to polish rocks with Rose as she demonstrates how to use the Lortone rock and jewelry tumbler.

Video Length 8:27

Watch Video

How To Use a Cord Tip (Glue-in Style)

Join Arbel as she demonstrates how to use glue-in style cord tips.

Video Length 3:19

Watch Video

How To Use Cord Coils

Cord coil ends are an easy and quick way to securely close a cord necklace.

Video Length 3:18

Watch Video

How to Use the Wire Twister

For round wire, fold it in half and place the looped end over a nail or in a bench vise to anchor it. For square wire, use a single strand and secure one end in the vise.

Video Length 2:12

Watch Video

How to use Bezelite and Bezelite-Style Settings

Bezelite settings give a great professional look to your faceted stones. They come in sterling silver, gold-filled and "vermeil", in earrings and pendant findings.

Video Length 3:35

Watch Video

Setting a Cabochon with a Bezel Pusher and Burnisher

Learn the art of setting cabochons with precision using our high-quality bezel pusher and burnisher tools.

Video Length 3:50

Watch Video

How to Use a Wire Donut Bail

Turn a gemstone or glass donut into an eye-catching pendant with donut bails.

Video Length 1:49

Watch Video

How to Use Glue-on Bails

A drop of glue is all you need to turn flat-backed components into attractive pendants and drops. Jewelry-making expert Tom walks you through the process.

Video Length 2:06

Watch Video

How to Make a Briolette Wrapped Loop

Not sure how to incorporate briolettes into jewelry? This instructional video shows how to add a loop to briolettes for use in any design.

Video Length 3:33

Watch Video

How To Use a Wide Eye Needle™

Learn all about the Wide-Eye Needle™ with jewelry expert Tom Triplett in this video and guide. Discover the remarkable features of these flexible yet strong needles, designed to accommodate various thread types and bead sizes.

Video Length 2:26

Watch Video

Setting a Cabochon with a Bezel Roller and Burnisher

Setting a cabochon into a bezel setting can be difficult to do without warping the bezel. Let jewelry designer-artist Tammy Honaman show you how to get fantastic results in this instructional video.

Video Length 3:50

Watch Video

How to Use Molding Compound

Want to make replicas of some of your unique stations or duplicate hard-to-find vintage buttons.? Learn how to use molding compound to recreate even fragile items.

Video Length 6:12

Watch Video

How to Make a Right-Angle Weave

A versatile stitch for jewelry makers, right-angle weave can be used with seed beads, crystals and more. Learn this stitch with these step-by-step instructions.

Video Length 14:04

Watch Video

How to Make Jewelry Findings with Wire

In this video, you'll learn how to make your own ear wires, jump rings, head pins, eye pins, clasps, bails and more.

Video Length 31:24

Watch Video

How to Use Easy Cast® Resin for DIY Jewelry Making

Join Patti as she shows you how to create custom pendants with resin and other crafty supplies.

Video Length 34:23

Watch Video

How to Create a Ladder Stitch

This set of instructions--complete with animated visuals--explains the single-needle ladder stitch process in a simple, understandable way.

Video Length 0:20

Watch Video

How To Crimp a Crimp Bead/Crimp Tube

Crimp beads are a vital finding in many jewelry designs. Learn how to properly use them with crimping pliers in this instructional guide and video.

Video Length 07:31

Watch Video

How to Create Tassels

Tassels are all the rage in jewelry and accessories. Learn how to create your own custom tassels with the Beadalon® tassel maker and threading of your choice.

Video Length 3:53

Watch Video

Stitching and Wire-Working Techniques

This informative resource contains videos and illustrated instructions on several stitching basics, including loom work, ladder stitch, herringbone stitch and more.

Learn How

Make Two Styles of Christmas Tree Earrings

In this video, you'll learn how the same Celestial Crystal® Christmas tree drops can be used to create two different earring designs.

Video Length 13:23

Watch Video

Bracelet

Classic rose-gold hues form an elaborate lattice framed by regal burgundy and purple for a bracelet that is as intricate as it is breathtaking.

View Instructions

How to Bead a Daisy Chain Stitch

Follow along with Rose in this step-by-step video as she teaches the daisy chain seed bead stitch that is perfect for creating cute DIY bracelets and necklaces. This fun, beading technique is a must-try!

Video Length 09:19

Watch Video

Chainmaille Weaves

Convenient chart lists a range of chainmaille weave styles, links to how-to instructions or videos, specific weave notes and more.

View Chart

Firing Gemstones and Natural Stones in Art Clay®

Do you want to add gemstones to your metal clay designs? This chart provides information on the stones that can be safely fired with Art Clay® and which stones should be avoided.

View Chart

Bead Tips

Give your beaded jewelry a professional finish with bead tips. This informative chart illustrates the three common types of bead tips and their functions.

View Chart

Categories

Tags

How-Tos