Michael asks…
I need stone- gemstone beads over 10mm with holes over 2mm?
I need hopefully carved gemstone or semi-precious beads of 10mm or larger that have holes of 2mm and are economical. A couple dollars a strand would be great. Can anyone help?
I am not looking for E-bay or Fire Mountain Gems - They don't sell big hole semi-precious stone beads. Thanks
admin answers:
If you are looking to buy beads here is a site that sells beads
http://www.firemountaingems.com/
Sandra asks…
I need gemstone - stone beads that have holes over 2mm?
I need hopefully carved gemstone or semi-precious beads of 10mm or larger that have holes of 2mm and are economical. A couple dollars a strand would be great. Can anyone help?
admin answers:
Do you like these turquoise gemstone beads?
Http://www.8season-supplies.com/beads-wholesale-turquoise-beads-c-43_49.html
Sharon asks…
Fastest easiest way to make a necklace or bracelets w/my rare semi-precious rondelle stones?
I own a whole string of (very hard to come by semi-precious) gemstone 'beads" shaped like rondelles. I am not crafty and I'm a klutz at any manual labor.
1) What is the fastest and easiest way to turn this into either a necklace or a couple bracelets?
2) Is there a kit that would have the "thread" already with a built-in clasp so I don't have to do too much? (Please link websites of items if possible)
3) What thread would be the best to use here so that it does not break on me??
I don't want to use plyers or wires, I am not good at making tiny knots so I am just looking for something pre-made and where all I would have to do is pass my rondelles into it., secure it somehow and voila. Does that exist??? Sorry, I do NOT enjoy crafts, I simply want to wear this ASAP.
If you use any "tech" lingo (verbs, nouns) please kindly explain yourself as I know nothing at all about crafts. With my apologies to you talented crafty people. And please do kindly come back to this Q if you answer it as chances are I will have Q's on your reply, LOL!
Thanks everyone! =)
admin answers:
Check Etsy.com to look for things, there are individual sellers on there that often sell jewelry supplies. If you really can't do anything you could always wear them as they are on the string and maybe wrap it around your wrist a few times. Other than that you might be out of luck with things you are willing to do yourself.
George asks…
where do i start?i create beaded jewelry would like to sell online.don't know much bout computers?
i don't know much about navigating online,but would like to get my creations some exposure, not sure where to start or how.your suggestions appreciated.i make beaded jewelry made with semi precious gemstones from around the world
admin answers:
The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.
I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.
Associations may be a good avenue to explore as well. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.
Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can. Here are some book titles that are relevant:
Business Startup Specific:
* How to Really Start Your Own Business, Fourth Edition by David E. Gumpert
* How to Really Create a Successful Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide by David E. Gumpert
* What No One Ever Tells You about Starting Your Own Business: Real-Life Start-Up Advice from 101 Successful Entrepreneurs (What No One Ever Tells You About Starting Your Own Business) by Jan Norman
* Business Start-Up Kit by Steven D. Strauss
* Start Your Own Business (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Up) by Rieva Lesonsky
E-Commerce Specific:
* Starting an Online Business For Dummies, 4th Edition by Greg Holden
* How to Start and Maintain A Successful Online Business by Kelly Thornton
* The Complete E-Commerce Book: Design, Build, and Maintain a Successful Web-Based Business by Janice Reynolds
Retail Specific:
* Start and Run a Profitable Retail Business by Jim Dion, Ted Topping
* Retail Business Kit for Dummies by Rick Segel
* Specialty Shop Retailing: How to Run Your Own Store Revised by Carol L. Schroeder
* So You Want To Own The Store: Secrets to Running a Successful Retail Operation by Mort Brown
There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.
Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!
Lisa asks…
Help getting started using PMC, art clay?
I have experience with copper enameling, but my mother currently is using my kiln, 300 miles away. I also make exotic strung gemstone bead jewelry, and I'd like to learn to use Precious Metal Clay to create original pendants and accents.
I already have a small butane torch which I've seen pictured with "starter kits." That's why I haven't bought a starter kit; I already have the torch.
So, can you tell me, what do I need to purchase in order to get started? including the surface to work and fire on.
Also, can I incorporate semi-precious gemstones or pearls into the clay before firing?
Thirdly, are there any specific "how to" books which you can recommend?
Thanks for the help.
admin answers:
I have been working in Precious Metal Clay for the last three years and as a 30 year silversmith I find it a fantastic medium to work in. I have completed 19 small pieces, all wearable art, some on display in my home and some at the Art Center where I took lessons.
You can pre-set some precious stones before firing if they have an MOS hardness greater than 7. All catalogs can tell you which ones. I have done it several times and the pieces look great!
There are a myriad of "how to books."
I would recommend you go to www.riogrande.com and look through their PMC section of everything from kilns to torches, how-to videos and supplies. Or, you can call 800-545-6566 and order one of three catalogs. The one to start with is Tools and Equipment it may cost you $10.00 but you get that back with your first order. There are many other websites that can accommodate you the same way and about equal in cost.
My studio workbench has a layer of oven brick that will protect the surface to 1800 Degrees. These can be bought at any brick yard or grill supply house and run about $2.00 @. Other basic equipment I have is a Paragon Kiln with a bead window where I can do focal beads and such. A PMC tool kit (you can also use regular clay tools as they are the same).
Instead of going thru a littany of what I have you need to contact the local Parks and Recreation Department to see if they have PMC courses offered. Here in SW Florida the next city from me offers class of 6-8 weeks, three hour sessions for about $100 and are continuous throught out the year. If no crafting is offered some beading shops can head you in the right direction.
Other web sites: metalclay.com; pinzart.com; and a magazine www.artjewelrymag.com.
If I can help you further send me an email from my profile. You might let me know what area you are in and I can do a search for you.
Good Luck, you have taken a poistive step for personal improvement and a source of income.
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