Essential Resources

How to Add Photographic Images to Apoxie®

Add photographs to Apoxie® Sculpt clay adhesive with waterslide image transfers by following along with this tutorial led by Lisa Pavelka, award-winning mixed media jewelry artist and instructor.

Video Length 11:31

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Bracelet

Begin your journey into kumihimo, a traditional Japanese braiding technique, with this easy-to-follow project and video tutorial.

Video Length 25:23

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Bracelet

Learn how to use the herringbone wire wrapping technique to create a wire-wrapped amethyst bracelet. Follow along with this instructional video to see how easy it can be.

Video Length 20:25

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How to Create Steampunk Gears and Embellishments Using Metal Clay

See how to create steampunk gears and embellishments from metal clay as you follow along with this jewelry-making project by award-winning artist and author Lisa Pavelka.

Video Length 11:59

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Using Rivets and the Rivet Setting Tool

Rivets add texture and dimension to any jewelry design. These animated instructions explain the basics of using rivets and the rivet setting tool.

Video Length 0:22

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Creating a Polymer Clay Steampunk Fish

Learn with polymer clay artist Christi Friesen as she guides you to create your version of her steampunk fish using Premo! Sculpey® in a step-by-step tutorial.

Video Length 15:00

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How to Use Half Bracelet Findings

Learn how to use half-bracelet components in this quick demonstrative video. Make simple bracelet designs.

Video Length 0:30

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How to Use Adjustable Ring Findings

Learn how to use an adjustable ring finding using a ring mandrel and pliers, while also adding bling into the setting, with this detailed tutorial and video.

Video Length 1:01

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How to Use the Tri-Bead Roller™

Make use of scrap clay or match polymer clay focals using this handy roller tool to create identical round, oval and bicone bead shapes. Polymer clay guru Christi Friesen shows it works and offers tips from her experience. Follow along with her or use the written instructions below the video.

Video Length 5:21

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How to Make Gemstones "Pop" in Polymer Clay

If a rhinestone doesn't have a foil back, then the stone can lose shine when set in polymer clay. Christi Friesen, award-winning jewelry artist, shows a trick for ensuring rhinestones stay sparkly no matter what they're set in.

Video Length 7:03

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How to Make Silicone Molds

Christi Friesen, polymer clay artist and guru, is here to teach a simple trick of how to make a silicone mold out of a two-part molding material for creating consistent jewelry components from found objects.

Video Length 3:53

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How to Use a Jump Ring Maker

Create your own round jump rings in the sizes and metals you want using the jump ring maker. Watch the silent animation to see how this tool set works or follow the written step-by-step instructions below the video.

Video Length 0:27

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How to Create the Tubular Netting Stitch

Rose shows you how easy it is to create a tubular net stitch and a filled tubular netting stitch in these two video tutorials and detailed instructions.

Video Length 8:20

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How to Adjust the Angle of the Proxxon™ Table Vise

This animated video shows how to adjust the angle of the Proxxon™ table vise so you can get the exact angle and position you need when clamping jewelry supplies.

Video Length 0:15

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Bracelet

Make this bracelet by using the herringbone spiral stitch. Don't know how to make that seed bead stitch? Just watch the video and follow along!

Video Length 24:47

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Ball Chain Bead Tips

Discover the art of using ball chain bead tips to elegantly finish off your ball chain projects.

Video Length 0:10

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How to Use Cupchain Connectors

Use sparkling cupchain without soldering! Silent animation shows how to insert the end of a length of cupchain into the connector finding and secure it in place. Below the video are full written step-by-step instructions.

Video Length 0:15

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How To Use a Thread Burner

Thread burners make a clean burn and seal the ends of thread. This handy how-to video shows why a thread burner is a versatile tool ideal for any thread project.

Video Length 1:02

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How to Use the Rotary Hole Punch Tool

Hand-held rotary punch is ideal for leather work—and this silent animation shows how to use it. Also includes full written step-by-step instructions below the video.

Video Length 0:15

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Herringbone Stitch

Add the spiral herringbone stitch to your seed bead repertoire. Whether you’re just getting started or are a seed bead pro, find everything you need to know in one place.

Video Length 24:46

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Opening Jump Rings and Split Rings

Learn how to easily open jump rings and split rings with this video tutorial.

Video Length 3:34

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How to Use Brads and Washers on Leather

Using brads and washers on leather is a foundational skill for mixed media and cold connections jewelry designs. Watch the silent animation—or follow the full written step-by-step instructions below the video—to learn this technique.

Video Length 0:41

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Sassy Spirals Techniques

Lisa Pavelka walks you through the process of making your own bead caps, wire cages and spiral accents in easy wire-working tutorial videos.

Video Length 14:05

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How to Use The Magic Finding™ and Pliers

Silent animation displays how to use Magic Finding™ crimps, Magic Finding Omega inserts and Magic Finding Pliers. Below the video are full written step-by-step instructions.

Video Length 0:42

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

The tree of life has been used all over the world for centuries. To capture this symbol in your jewelry, wire-wrap a cabochon with a tree design by following these video instructions.

Video Length 28:30

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Fold Over Clasp

A low-profile clasp that is less likely to tangle or snag on clothes or hair than other styles. It folds shut, closing securely and locking with a quiet snap.

Foil

Find the definition of "foil."

Creating an Eye Pin from a Length of Wire

Silent animation displays how to create an eye pin from a length of wire. Below the video are full written step-by-step instructions by jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman.

Video Length 0:20

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Facet

A flat surface or plane on a cut gemstone. The movement of light from one facet to another creates the sparkle and flash of a stone.

Using Waterslide Image Transfers

Welcome to our tutorial on using Waterslide Image Transfers for your creative projects!

Video Length 2:41

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Bracelet

Rose is showing off some wonderful beads to use when it comes to peyote stitch. Find out what she has planned, and what she is demonstrating off with simple beads.

Video Length 27:13

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Fiber Optic Glass

This glass gets its name from its similarity to Cat's Eye Quartz and the unique way the two materials refract light. Also called Cat's Eye Glass.

How to Open Magnetic Clasps

Learn the easy way to open magnetic clasps without risking damage or losing the magnets.

Video Length 0:10

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Earwire

A thin piece of wire used to support ear jewelry. Ear wires come in many styles. The fishhook is popular often with a ball or coil to balance the finding.

Ear Thread

An earring form consisting of a short post with attached chain. The post serves as a "needle," allowing the chain to be threaded front-to-back through the ear.

Earstud

A finding, usually metal, used to create ear jewelry. The post or stud passes through the ear, and is secured by an earnut on the back. Also see Earpost.

Earpost

A finding, usually metal, used to create ear jewelry. The post or stud passes through the ear, and is secured by an earnut on the back. Also see Earstud.

Ear Cuff

A half-circle band or ring of metal pinched around the side or middle edge of the ear. Some styles have a dangle or a chain to an earstud on the same ear.

UNIVERSAL™ Magical Crimper Pliers

Jewelry designer Rose can't help but be excited when telling you about a pair of magical crimping pliers that turns a crimp tube into a round crimp bead. Don't blink, you might miss it!

Video Length 2:46

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Weighing with Digital Scales

Discover the precision of digital scales for your crafting needs when accuracy in weight measurement is essential.

Video Length 1:06

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How to Use the Crystal Katana Embellishment Positioner

The Crystal Katana is an invaluable tool when working with small crystals and embellishments, allowing you to easily grip and position them.

Video Length 1:06

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Polymer Clay Mica-Shift Technique

Explore the mesmerizing world of the Polymer Clay Mica-Shift Technique in our upcoming video.

Video Length 2:53

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Gold Filled

Explore the precise technical definition of "gold-filled" within this EncycloBEADia® entry.

EUROTOOL® Nylon Jaw Looping Pliers

In-house jewelry designer Jamie Smedley shows the benefit of EUROTOOL® nylon jaw pliers when working with jewelry-making wire you don’t want to mar or scratch.

Video Length 1:16

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Gauge

Find the definition of "gauge," a measure of wire.

Fishhook Clasp

A lightweight clasp with a fishhook-shaped interior hook which is inserted into an oval box. The hook stops jewelry from falling off if the clasps are opened.

Using EUROTOOL® Coil Cutting Pliers

We're diving into the world of jewelry-making with EUROTOOL® Coil Cutting Pliers -- designed to effortlessly handle wire coils. Complete with comfortable cushion grip handles and a center spring for smooth cutting action.

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Druzy

Name given to a layer of tiny quartz crystals which have formed on a gemstone.

Drop

A component that dangles from another component or the jewelry's body. A drop has one top loop or hole and any range of bottom loops or holes, including none.

Fire-Polished

A process in which beads are machine faceted, then polished by glazing inside a red-hot glass oven. This softens the edges and gives the beads a smooth feel.

Druk Bead

A high-quality round pressed glass bead imported directly from the Czech Republic.

Fringe Bead

A mostly round drop bead, created by Miyuki of Japan. Perfect for edges and the termination of a row of beadwork.

French Wire

Find the definition of "French wire."

Donut

A flat component with a large center hole, usually round. Named after the pastry doughnut, the donut component is often used as a centerpiece.

Measuring with Calipers

Calipers make measuring small things, like beads and holes in beads, a snap.

Video Length 2:53

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Dulling

Find the definition of "dulling," a procedure for metal finishing.

Delica® Bead

Explore the rich origins and meticulous manufacturing process behind Delica® seed beads.

Adjustable Clasp

Has a short length of chain to vary the necklace length by attaching the clasp to different links of the chain. Includes Hook-and-Eye and Lobster Claw Clasps.

Adhesive

(see also Glue) A liquid, semi-liquid, gel or film that adheres or bonds items together. E-6000® and G-S Hypo cement are adhesives.

Collar

Find the definition of "collar," a specific kind of necklace.

Dead Soft

A term used for wire that is extremely malleable and can be bent easily into a myriad of shapes.

Add-a-Bead Clasp

Find the definition of "Add-a-Bead clasp" for large-hole beads.

Dichroic Glass

A glass material containing ultra-thin layers of metal oxides. The micro-layers create different layers and patterns of light refraction within the glass.

Czech Glass

Glass, usually in the form of beads, created in the Czech Republic. Also called Bohemian glass or Bohemian crystal.

Ceylon

The use of Ceylon before a bead color name indicates the addition of a luster coating or the inside coloring of an opalescent bead.

Cowrie/Cowry Shell

A shell, commonly white but also available in colors and patterns, which is smooth and glossy with a long, narrow, slit-like opening.

Using Spacer Bars in Multi-Strand Designs

Spacer bars are a great way to bring structure—and style!—to your multi-strand jewelry creations. Expert jewelry designer Tammy Honaman shows how they work in this video.

Video Length 4:35

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A Complete Guide to Jooltool™

View in-depth how-to videos courtesy of Jooltool™ and renowned mixed media artist Lisa Pavelka that unveil the magic behind the Jooltool polishing system.

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Forming Complex Wire Shapes

Although jewelry wire is often used to support other components, it can also take center stage. Learn how to make sculptural wire pendants in this informative video with jewelry designer Sandra Lupo.

Video Length 5:57

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Fine jewelry

Fine jewelry is jewelry that uses at least 14Kt gold or other precious metals and precious gems like diamonds, sapphires, rubies or emeralds.

Forming Basic Wire Shapes

Handmade wire components can take any jewelry design from "okay" to "wow!". Learn how to make an S-clasp, pendant hanger and bead cage with this how-to video with renowned metalsmith Sandra Lupo.

Video Length 6:19

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Finding

A jewelry-making term for any metal component used to connect and/or assemble jewelry.

Flux

A liquid or paste used in metal soldering. Flux lowers the temperature of the metal surfaces to increase bonding and protect them from oxidization.

How to Use Magnifiers

Discover the art of using magnifiers in this informative video guide.

Video Length 2:19

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Cat's Eye (Glass)

(also called Fiber Optic Glass) Created with manmade fiber optic glass, cat's eye refracts light in a way reminiscent of the oblong center of a cat's eye. This center appearance of movement is caused by chatoyance, which is defined as changeable luster or shine.

Flush-Cutting Pliers

Pliers used to trim headpins, eyepins, wire-wrapping wire and cable-style beading wire. The outside surface of the curved blades creates a flat, flush cut.

Cathedral Glass

Made by pressing glass into a steel mold, coating with color, then grinding and polishing every facet. The color coating remains on the ends of the beads.

Costume Jewelry

A category of jewelry is generally thought of as jewelry made from base metals, glass, plastics and other synthetics. It may also be comprised of shell, wood and other organic materials. Costume jewelry can be artisan-made or mass produced.

Crystal (Quartz)

(see also Quartz Crystal) Naturally occurring quartz in its clear or colorless form.

Making Head Pins from Wire

It is easier than you might think! Follow along with this video to learn how to make four fancy head pin shapes.

Video Length 6:26

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How to Clean Jewelry

Learn how to safely and effectively clean your jewelry using the right polishing cloths, liquid cleaners and maintenance tips to keep your pieces looking their best.

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Riveting With a Tube or Crimp Tube

Learn the art of riveting with tubes or crimp tubes, a cold-joining technique that securely brings metal pieces together, creating a strong bond with flared ends and a precise hole – a crucial skill for your jewelry-making journey.

Video Length 4:04

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Sizing Rings on a Ring Mandrel

Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman demonstrates how to size ring bands without stones by using a ring mandrel and a hammer.

Video Length 3:49

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Creating and Designing with Links

Follow along with this video tutorial to learn how to use sew-on components as bracelet links.

Video Length 3:00

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Wrapping Stones and Beads with Half-Round Wire

Renowned jewelry artist Sandra Lupo demonstrates how to wire wrap a freeform stone in this video tutorial that also has written instructions so you can follow along whichever way you want.

Video Length 4:23

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Adding French Wire and Clasp to Silk Thread

Learn how to expertly incorporate French wire and clasps onto silk thread to elevate your jewelry designs.

Video Length 3:10

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How to Use an Ice-Pick Bail

Ice-pick bails may sound complicated, but using them isn’t! Learn how easy they are to use with pendants and other drilled components in this video.

Video Length 2:32

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Using Banding Pliers to Wire Wrap a Crystal Passions® Fancy Stone

Banding pliers are an essential tool for wireworking; learn how to use them to wrap stones in this informative video by Wyatt White, formerly of Beadalon®.

Video Length 30:24

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How to Anneal Metal

Learn about annealing metal with award winning jewelry artist Lisa Pavelka. Includes tips on working with butane torches.

Video Length 12:57

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How to Make Your Own Jump Rings

Award-winning author, designer and instructor Lisa Pavelka is here to walk you through making your own jump rings from scratch! Learn several different tips on jump ring making.

Video Length 14:52

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How To Use Resin

Love the look of resin, but aren’t sure how to get started? Tammy Honaman demonstrates the beginning processes of resin in this video tutorial.

Video Length 4:08

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Polishing Metal with Lisa Pavelka

Finishing and polishing metal is an artform. Lisa Pavelka, jewelry-making expert, demonstrates how to select the right tools and products to get the job done correctly.

Video Length 7:39

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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

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Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® Color Forecast

Inspired by a global panel of fashion insiders and style industry experts, our custom Color Forecast Reports give you a sneak peek at the color trends of upcoming fashion seasons.

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

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Macramé Bracelet

Join Elaine to learn how to make a Western-style bracelet using hemp cord, feather charms and a button clasp.

Video Length 6:37

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Explore Resources

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Resources (1,145)

How to Add Photographic Images to Apoxie®

Bracelet

Bracelet

How to Create Steampunk Gears and Embellishments Using Metal Clay

Using Rivets and the Rivet Setting Tool

Creating a Polymer Clay Steampunk Fish

How to Use Half Bracelet Findings

How to Use Adjustable Ring Findings

How to Use the Tri-Bead Roller™

How to Make Gemstones "Pop" in Polymer Clay

How to Make Silicone Molds

How to Use a Jump Ring Maker

How to Create the Tubular Netting Stitch

How to Adjust the Angle of the Proxxon™ Table Vise

Bracelet

Ball Chain Bead Tips

How to Use Cupchain Connectors

How To Use a Thread Burner

How to Use the Rotary Hole Punch Tool

Herringbone Stitch

Opening Jump Rings and Split Rings

How to Use Brads and Washers on Leather

Sassy Spirals Techniques

How to Use The Magic Finding™ and Pliers

Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Fold Over Clasp

Foil

Creating an Eye Pin from a Length of Wire

Facet

Using Waterslide Image Transfers

Bracelet

Fiber Optic Glass

How to Open Magnetic Clasps

Earwire

Ear Thread

Earstud

Earpost

Ear Cuff

UNIVERSAL™ Magical Crimper Pliers

Weighing with Digital Scales

How to Use the Crystal Katana Embellishment Positioner

Polymer Clay Mica-Shift Technique

Gold Filled

EUROTOOL® Nylon Jaw Looping Pliers

Gauge

Fishhook Clasp

Using EUROTOOL® Coil Cutting Pliers

Druzy

Drop

Fire-Polished

Druk Bead

Fringe Bead

French Wire

Donut

Measuring with Calipers

Dulling

Delica® Bead

Adjustable Clasp

Adhesive

Collar

Dead Soft

Add-a-Bead Clasp

Dichroic Glass

Czech Glass

Ceylon

Cowrie/Cowry Shell

Using Spacer Bars in Multi-Strand Designs

A Complete Guide to Jooltool™

Forming Complex Wire Shapes

Fine jewelry

Forming Basic Wire Shapes

Finding

Flux

How to Use Magnifiers

Cat's Eye (Glass)