Essential How-Tos | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

Warping a Mirrix Loom for Beadwork with the Shedding Device

Bead weaving on a loom is more convenient with a shedding device. Here's how to warp a Mirrix loom for bead weaving while accommodating the shedding device.

View Instructions

How to Use the Kemper® Clay Square Hole Cutters

Cutting perfectly square holes into or shapes from clays and clay resins is easy with this two-step tutorial for the Kemper® clay cutters.

View Instructions

Using the Elastacord™ Bead Threader

Never has it been easier to string beads than with the Elastacord™ Bead Threader. These concise instructions tell you everything you need to know to use this convenient tool.

Design Idea EA5B

View Instructions

How to Use the Artistic Wire® CONETASTIC™ Hourglass Mandrel

Follow these instructions for the Artistic Wire® CONETASTIC™ tool to create custom coiled wire double cones. Developed by metalsmith Sandra Lupo, it includes three sizes of two-piece hourglass mandrels.

Design Idea F64H

View Instructions

How to Assemble the Beading Station Organizer

Assemble the beading station organizer using these illustrated step-by-step instructions from the manufacturer.

View Instructions

How to Use Patina Gel

Patina gel by Cool Tools is a sulfur-based antiquing solution in a stable form for use on bare clean copper, bronze or silver. This illustrated tutorial guides you through each step.

Design Idea B12V

View Instructions

How to Use the Artistic Wire® CONETASTIC™ Inverted Mandrel

From the ingenious mind of metalsmith Sandra Lupo comes the Artistic Wire CONETASTIC mandrel for creating custom wire-wrapped cones. Use this tutorial to create three different sizes of inverted cones using these full instructions.

View Instructions

How to Attach Pop Clasps

Pop clasps feature glue-in ends for attaching jewelry cording. See how to add cord with these illustrated instructions.

Design Idea BB9G

View Instructions

Terminating Leather Strands with Cones

Learn how to elegantly terminate leather strands with cones in this simple tutorial.

View Instructions

Soldering Iron Owner's Manual

Owner's manual for using a soldering iron in jewelry making. It contains all the information to safely and properly set-up, operate and maintain your soldering iron.

View Instructions

How-To Secure Drops to an Ear wire with Peg

Add a top-drilled component to a fishhook ear wire with an extra-long peg to create easy earrings with this 3-step tutorial.

View Instructions

Art Clay Gold 22k - Clay Type

Art Clay® Gold Clay creates pieces made of 22Kt gold after firing. This tutorial includes guidelines for preparation, molding, drying, kiln firing and finishing this clay material—plus handling tips and safety precautions.

Design Idea F93D

View Instructions

How to Make a Peyote Stitch Mandala

Create intricate beaded mandalas with ease by following these straightforward instructions. Your beadwork has never been more extraordinary!

Design Idea D18R

View Instructions

Fusing Glass Frit in a Slumping Mold

Fusing glass frit can be a beautiful and creative expression of glasswork. Here are tips and techniques for fusing glass, including four firing schedules for a glass kiln.

Design Idea BBB9

View Instructions

How to Use Grommets

Metal grommets safeguard the edges of stringing holes in large-hole beads. This four-step guide walks designers through the process of securely gluing a grommet into the bead.

Design Idea AB5Q

View Instructions

How to Load the Metal Clay Syringe Pen™

Confused about the mechanics of loading a metal clay syringe? Check out these simple instructions and you’ll be on your way to crafting in no time!

Design Idea G12Q

View Instructions

How to Use a Brooch Converter

Follow the three-step instructions and transform a horizontal or vertical brooch into a stylish pendant using a brooch converter.

View Instructions

Ball Chain Connectors

Using ball connectors is a pinch. Learn how in this step-by-step tutorial.

View Instructions

How to Make Your Own Clay Cutters

Learn how to make your own clay cutters to create custom designs using metal sheet and polymer clay.

Design Idea J33C

View Instructions

Glue Crystal Flat Backs

Crystal transfer sheets make precision designing and crystal embellishing easy.

View Instructions

Prometheus® Bronze Clay Instructions

Explore the fascinating process of working with Prometheus® Bronze Clay, from handling wet clay and troubleshooting common errors to successfully firing your design in the kiln. Everything you need to master this art is right here.

Design Idea G33Y

View Instructions

Prometheus® Copper Clay Instructions

Unlock the world of Prometheus® Copper Clay with this comprehensive text tutorial. From crafting jewelry and ornaments to sculpting statues, unleash your creativity and bring your imaginative designs to life.

Design Idea G33Z

View Instructions

Artistic Wire® Toggle Jig

These photographic instructions show you how to use the Artistic Wire® toggle jig to create perfect clasps every time.

View Instructions

How to Use Ring Findings

Learn how to assemble multi-hole ring findings using stretch cord with this step-by-step guide for creating custom, comfortable rings.

View Instructions

Art Clay® Silver Clay

Learn the steps for using Art Clay® Silver Clay for jewelry-making: preparation, molding and drying, kiln firing and finishing. This tutorial includes handling tips and safety precautions.

Design Idea F93F

View Instructions

How to Open and Close a Pop Clasp

Pop clasps are perfect for breakaway styles like lanyards and badge holders. They “pop” open when pulled and snap shut when pressed. See how to use them in these instructions.

Design Idea BBA9

View Instructions

How to Create a Resin Pendant

Create a framed resin pendant—like a window into another place or time—using photo-illustrated instructions by jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman.

Design Idea BA5Z

View Instructions

Single-Strand Necklace

Clusters of sparkling red rubies and lustrous freshwater pearls hang daintily from gold-filled chain on this elegant necklace

Design Idea EC8G

View Instructions

Triple-Strand Necklace

This multi-strand necklace by Matthew MacMinn can be made in silver and Crystal Passions® peridot green, or opt for the colors you or your customers like most.

Design Idea EC6Q

View Instructions

Earrings

The gemstones in these delicate earrings infuse this design with the essence of early morning rain. Follow our free tutorial to make your own pair.

Design Idea EC1T

View Instructions

Pouch

Use peyote stitch with seed beads and 4mm fire-polished glass beads to create a luxurious small accessory case. Courtesy of Preciosa®, complete with step-by-step instructions.

Design Idea EA81

Learn How

Ornaments

You can never make too many Christmas designs. This tutorial from Preciosa teaches how to make a seed bead net to place over and dress up glass baubles.

Design Idea EA8P

View Instructions

Endless Necklace

The possibilities are endless ... and claspless! Here's how to build a long necklace that slips over the head and has no visible beginning or end.

Design Idea 691Q

View Instructions

Bell Ornament

Ring in some holiday décor designs with this beaded wire project from Preciosa®. Seed beads strung on high gauge wireworking wire forms the shape and supports the structure of this bell ornament.

Design Idea EA8L

View Instructions

Viking Knit Made Using the Lazee Daizee™

These illustrated instructions show how to make Viking knit wire jewelry with a Lazee Daizee™ tool. Incorporating this technique into your creations is a snap!

View Instructions

How to Create a Wire Band

Getting frustrated with hand-wrapping wire bands? This handy instruction guide shows how to use banding pliers to make perfectly started wraps every time.

View Instructions

Cutting Glass with Glass Nippers

Lean how to safely nip small pieces of glass with these step-by-step instructions.

View Instructions

How to Use Gilders Paste®

Gilders Paste is a professional wax-based medium that can be mixed and layered for an endless color palette that won't fade. Learn how with this informative article.

View Instructions

How to Make Hair Comb out of Wire

These step-by-step instructions show you how to make a hair comb from wire. With helpful illustrations at each step, this accessory is easier than ever.

View Instructions

Fusing Glass in a Microwave Kiln

Learn how to fuse glass at home with these helpful tips and a microwave kiln.

View Instructions

How to Use Liquid Polymer Clay

Discover the creative potential of liquid polymer clay! Explore its many uses, then dive into Tamara Honaman’s tutorial to craft your own liquid clay sheet.

View Instructions

Making a Butterfly Polymer Clay Cane

Polymer clay canes are a versatile staple in the jewelry-maker's skill set. Learn how to make butterfly-wing canes with these instructions.

View Instructions

How to Use Bulldog Crimps™

Using Bulldog Crimps™ is easy. They work ideally as temporary crimps for stringing beads and holding multiple strands together for display or organization.

View Instructions

How to Use the Kumihimo Plate to Create Flat Braids

Learn to create a new twist on kumihimo braiding and friendship bracelets with this guide. Using a square plate, it’s easy to create flat designs.

View Instructions

How to Make a Wire Hook-and-Eye Clasp

Making your own clasps can save time and money. These instructions, complete with photos, show you how to make your own hook-and-eye clasps with wire.

View Instructions

Peg Leg™ - Wire-Wrapping Jig

Create small wirework components using the hand-held Peg Leg wire-wrapping tool. Follow these written instructions to set up and use this handy tool.

View Instructions

Art Clay® Gold Paste

Art Clay® Gold Paste is a liquid paste designed to add gold texture to ceramic, porcelain, glass and/or Art Clay® Silver fired clay pieces. This tutorial includes guidelines for preparation, application, kiln firing and finishing—plus handling tips and safety precautions.

Design Idea F93E

View Instructions

Queen's Link Chainmaille

Add elegant detail to chainmaille jewelry using the queen's link chainmaille technique.

View Instructions

How to Use Cord Coils for Lantern Chain

Shiny cord coils with loop ends create a neat finish to lantern chain.

Design Idea 999B

View Instructions

Art Clay® Silver--Firing FAQ's

Art Clay Silver metal clay can be fired with a butane torch—sometimes. When? How? What happens after firing? Jewelry experts answer these and other questions in this FAQ.

View Instructions

Décor

Branch out into holiday décor designs with this beaded wire project from Preciosa®. Seed beads strung on high gauge wireworking wire forms the shape of this holly branch. Add Preciosa’s pearls as red holly berries or white mistletoe!

Design Idea EA7Q

View Instructions

How to Use Bezel Strips

Learn how to make a custom bezel setting for any cabochon using bezel strips. Clear images demonstrate every step in this how-to.

View Instructions

Lashed Wrap Bracelet

Metallic Half Tila® beads stack up in this stylish lashed wrap bracelet, a strong on-going trend. Step-by-step instructions courtesy of Miyuki.

Design Idea E94M

View Instructions

How to Create a Spiral Chainmaille Weave

Let the loops do the work for you. Easily create intriguing chains using this simple spiral chainmaille weave.

View Instructions

How to Create a Roundmaille Weave

Create sleek, smooth and flexible lengths of roundmaille chain by following these simple step-by-step illustrated instructions.

View Instructions

How to Create a Japanese 4-in-1 Chainmaille Weave

Learn how to create this simple Japanese chainmaille style to quickly create airy accents for jewelry and other designs.

View Instructions

How to Make a Bib-Style Necklace

Ukrainian artist Elena Golovchenko blended purples and lavenders from gemstone, Czech fire-polished glass and seed beads to create this bib necklace. Follow Elena Golovchenko’s intricate design with Fashion Magazine’s instructions.

Design Idea D16F

View Instructions

How to Create an Inverted Round Chainmaille Weave

An inverted version of roundmaille, this technique creates an elegant chain ideal for jewelry and other design embellishments.

View Instructions

How to Use a Hotfix Transfer Sheet

Want to design your own bedazzled embellishments with hotfix transfer sheets? Here's how.

Design Idea E327

View Instructions

How to Create a 4-in-1 Half Persian Chainmaille Weave

Create fun textured jewelry with the 4-in-1 half Persian chainmaille weave. Learn step by step.

View Instructions

Ornament

Stitch a glittering snowflake net over a round round Christmas ornament. Make this holiday treasure with full step-by-step instructions from Preciosa®.

Design Idea CAF9

View Instructions

How to Use 2-Part Pendant Settings with Crystal Passions® Flat Backs

Learn how to easily use two-part pendant settings to mount Crystal Passion® flat backs.

View Instructions

How to Assemble and Use the Wrapit Loom™

With the Wrapit Loom™ tying station, you can say goodbye to the complexities of intricate bead-stringing and hello to a hassle-free way to craft beautiful bracelets. With this easy-to-use tool, you can create stunning bracelets without getting tied up in knots.

View Instructions

How to Use Suncatcher Connectors

Unleash your creativity and transform ordinary glass beads into dazzling suncatchers with our step-by-step guide on how to use connectors for a radiant touch to your space.

View Instructions

Embellishing Adjustable Charm Bracelets

Adding charms to your bangle charm bracelet is a breeze with these easy-to-follow instructions.

View Instructions

Using Small Crystals to Make Corners in Designs

Learn how to use small crystals as corner beads and create this sparkling bracelet in this tutorial.

Design Idea H929

View Instructions

Artistic Wire® 3D Bracelet Jig

This handy how-to video from Beadalon® explains how simple it is to use the Artistic Wire® 3D bracelet jig. Creating wire cuff bracelets has never been easier!

Video Length 7:59

Watch Video

Home Décor Fish with Twin™ Seed Beads

Four fishy little figurines made using Preciosa Twin™ and size #11 seed beads. Use these step-by-step instructions from Preciosa® to make your own!

Design Idea CAF3

View Instructions

Beaded Backstitch

A stitch that is used often in bead embroidery is the backstitch. This stitch is used to frame the components adhered to the beading medium.

View Instructions

Ornament

Use off-loom beading stitches to create this lacy embellishment for a Christmas tree ornament using our full step-by-step instructions, courtesy of Preciosa®.

Design Idea CAEZ

View Instructions

Ring with Seed Beads

To make a seed bead ring, choose your colors from Fire Mountain Gems' vast seed bead selection.

Design Idea 7255

View Instructions

Prometheus® White Bronze Clay Instructions

Learn the steps for using Prometheus® White Bronze clay for jewelry-making—including a kiln firing schedule. This tutorial includes tips for building, drying and finishing the clay before and after firing.

Design Idea G340

View Instructions

How to Use Sure-Set Mountings

Sure-sets are precision cast mountings with seats that fit most stone girdles. Use standard pliers or simplify the job with our notched setting pliers.

Design Idea 6917

View Instructions

How to Use a WigJig Jewelry Tool

Learn how to use a wireworking jig with this step-by-step tutorial. Includes tips and tricks from the makers of the WigJig.

Design Idea A76E

View Instructions

Prometheus® Sterling White Bronze Clay

Prometheus® Sterling White Bronze Clay is ideal for creations that shine with the ethereal glow of moonlight. Master the art of working with this unique medium and watch your creations come to life with an otherworldly brilliance.

Design Idea H72C

View Instructions

Memory Wire Bracelet

Have you tried Memory Wire yet? This great design is just the beginning of what you can do with Memory Wire.

Design Idea 4B10

View Instructions

Prometheus® Greenish Yellow Bronze Clay Instructions

Discover the sophisticated sheen of Prometheus® Greenish Yellow Bronze Clay. With these precise instructions, you will learn to create dazzling works of art with ease.

Design Idea H72B

View Instructions

Firing Art Clay® with a Gas Stove

Not everyone has access to a kiln. In this tutorial, learn how to fire certain types of metal clay pieces on a gas stove rather than with traditional firing methods.

Design Idea 6909

View Instructions

Picot Stitch

Learn the picot stitch from jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman in this step-by-step guide. Discover why jewelry makers love this versatile stitch for seed bead designs.

View Instructions

Cork Clay

Cork clay is easily shaped and refined into a solid core for firing hollow metal clay beads and sculptural pieces. Learn the benefits and how to use it with this tutorial.

Design Idea 6907

View Instructions

Stone Setting

Bezelite settings take all the mystery and headache out of stone setting. Even a beginner can get great results in seconds! They are made for faceted stones and most cabochons.

View Instructions

Stitching an "X"

Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman teaches how to create this "X" stitch used to embellish cabochons.

View Instructions

Using Liver of Sulfur™

Create a vintage-style patina on copper, bronze or silver components with Liver of Sulfur™. Learn the proper techniques and get helpful tips.

View Instructions

How to Create a Jens Pind Linkage Chainmaille Weave

Learn step by step how to complete a jens pind linkage chainmaille weave. An advanced chaimaille technique to create intricate designs.

View Instructions

Prometheus Clays Information Sheet

Working with Prometheus® Clay is similar to working with polymer and ceramic clays. Find all the tips and techniques you need in this how-to guide from Prometheus.

View Instructions

EnviroTex® Jewelry Resin

EnviroTex® jewelry resin is ideal for filling bezels and molds with shells, beads, paper and more. Learn how to use it in your designs with this instruction guide.

Design Idea FA3V

View Instructions

How to Create a Seed Beaded Toggle Clasp

Learn how to make your own seed beaded toggle clasps for the ultimate in one-of-a-kind jewelry.

View Instructions

African Helix Stitch

Follow along with jewelry-making expert Rose as she teaches the basics of an African helix stitch and how to develop your own unique designs using this uncommon stitch.

View Instructions

How to Create a Cellini Spiral

You can master the Cellini spiral after following these step-by-step instructions. Extra-large images that show you exactly where everything goes.

Video Length 14:32

Watch Video

How to Create the Chevron Stitch

The chevron stitch is a versatile seed-beading technique that is perfect for all kinds of decorative and jewelry-making uses. Learn how it's done with this how-to video hosted by Rose.

Video Length 5:25

Watch Video

How To Remove the End on a Caprice Chain

Easily create necklaces and bracelets with large-hole beads and bead keepers using caprice and Dione® Easy-On chains. These chains have two 8x5mm end caps. One has a clasp and the other unscrews for easy bead stringing. Clear images demonstrate every step in this how-to.

View Instructions

How to Create the Dutch Spiral Stitch

Add to your seed beading technique repertoire by learning how to make the Dutch spiral stitch. Three-dimensional models help you figure out each step of the instructions.

Design Idea J40Y

View Instructions

How to Make a Custom Charm

Create a charm from metal sheet and use stamping tools to personalize it with this step-by-step tutorial.

View Instructions

How to Thread a Needle with Ease

Learn an alternate way to thread a needle without holding it in the air. Clear images demonstrate every step in this how-to.

View Instructions

How to Create a Flat Chenille Stitch

Expand your bead-weaving skills by learning how to make the flat chenille stitch. This complex beading pattern uses little seed beads, but don't fret, large images accompany the instructions to help you form each row correctly.

Design Idea J40Z

View Instructions

Gluing a Half-Drilled Gemstone or Pearl onto a Peg Earstud

Create classic post earring designs with only a peg earstud and a half-drilled bead or pearl. Simple how-to walks designers through each step.

View Instructions

Categories

Tags

How-Tos