Tooling Around

Brains and imagination are not always the bottom line for creating, although you can get quite far on those alone, but chances are you may need help in the way of tools. These are a few of the gadgets that are saving my mind (and hands) in the creativity department.

EuroTool Power Punch

After destroying my hand held hammer hole punch set (as well as my fingers!) I realized more than brute strength was needed to punch holes in metal! This nifty, easy to use metal hole punch has easily replaceable dies in a variety of sizes! Yay! A small investment for perfectly punched holes!

Beadsmith Bead Reamer 

Nothing drives me more crazy than pulling out a beautiful strand of semi-precious beads only to have half of them not fit on the wire. A bead reaming tool will save the day! Bead Reaming Set from EviesToolEmporium.etsy.com

Small Sketch Pad

Keep a small sketch pad at hands for those quick ideas. A sketch app like Doodledroid for your smart phone is a nice paper free alternative. A beautifully made art journal is inspirational in and of itself! Art journal from Indra's Ideas.

Camera

Nearly every phone has a camera feature. It is perfect for capturing inspiration and ideas. (Inspiration comes from many places. Don't judge.)

Aveda Hand Relief

One word.... Ahhhhh.

Link Library with Melanie

Back in 2008, Elaine Ray shared an inventive tool that she made that has multiple functions.  This chain holder is easy to make and can help with both jewelry making and jewelry photography.  Check out the post the archives to read more about how she made this innovative yet simple tool!


Now check out some of the links from our blogger friends:

A Bead A Day
Looking for some easy and fun holiday jewelry making projects? Lisa is sharing a few new ones this week. Snowflake earrings, jingle bell rings and simple Swarovski crystal earrings!


About.com Jewelry Making
There is still time to make some awesome (and easy) beaded ornaments.

Art Bead Scene
Marie Cramp shares some beautiful examples of using the colors from art pendant focals to inspire a necklace design 


Beading Arts
Cyndi is featuring an entire month of tutorials to get you ready for the holidays!

  Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a little post about working with hemp cord this week!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean is so excited about the wonderful opportunity to win 150 dollars worth of Nina Designs components! For details, please see her blog!  

Melanie Brooks is the ceramic beadmaker behind Earthenwood Studio, who blogs from her Metro Detroit, Michigan home.

I Heart Tools: Vintaj Big Kick

In September I was fortunate enough to attend a two day Vintaj workshop in Galena, Illinois at the Vintaj Earth Studio.  It was an incredibly inspiring weekend with more tips and tricks packed into two days than one would think possible.  One of my favorite projects was working with the new Vintaj Big Kick Machine.  We embossed textures and images unto Vintaj blanks to create fun pendants and components.

Here are some class projects of the altered blanks embossed and riveted with charms and pendants.  I love the look of layering the pendants.  It's fun way to customize your metal without hammering away or pulling out the chemicals.  The process is so simple, you can whip out a ton of pendants in a short session.

Add the embossed blanks with your favorite art beads for quick and easy holiday pendants.  In fact, that is what I'm doing this weekend to prepare for upcoming holiday shows.  I'm pairing up the tree pendants with my egg, bird and branch beads.

Step by step directions and video links can be found here.

This is the Big Kick - it's sort of like a printing press.  You place your metal blank into the folder, layer it between the two sheets of plastic and run it through.  Yep - that's it!  After your pendant is done, you can add some depth by buffing it.  The black Arte Metal blanks buff up with silver highlights - loved them!

This is my favorite folder - me and that tree became fast friends.

You can find the Vintaj Big Kick & folders at Hobby Lobby or online at Beadaholique or Bello Modo.

I see that Vintaj is hosting a one day workshop covering the embossing and melt art techniques in November.  Click here for more details.

I Heart Tools - Hole Punching

I punch a lot of holes in metal these days and I have been through a few tools that have helped me get this arduous task over more quickly and efficiently. I would like to share each one here and let you know of the individual problems I had for each one and how I could have prolonged the life of my hole punchers if I would have invested some time into properly caring for my tools.

 I've learned and utilized the old school way of drill pressing for both polymer clay and metal but the set up takes awhile and it is tedious work. Plus you go through titanium bits at a pretty costly rate. So I started to experiment with hole punching pliers to make this job easier and quicker. 

Clamping your metal down against wood and lining up the drill press for your hand held drill will work if you have the equipment and maybe a helper who is more experienced with power tools (or just reckless as the helper in my case).

 First up is the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads steel hole punch for $15.62. The thinnest hole drill (1.5mm) broke almost immediately and I feel it is only good for punching 24 gauge metal and thinner. Which is a bit too thin to get a really good chunky metal piece out of so I just used the larger hole drill (2mm) for a lot of the thicker pendants I punch and hammer, which is usually 20 to 18 gauge.  It became dull within a couple of months since I was using it on too thick of metal at 18 gauge and I started looking for something else to use. (But I still pull it out here and there when I have doubled over 2 sheets of 24 gauge and it seems to be holding up well under this mishandling.)

Which brought me to these hole punch pliers by EuroTool available through romazone.etsy.com for $12.00.
Which I loved and used quite a bit in 2010 until I broke them on 18 gauge sheet metal. I only had to replace the hole punch of 1.8mm once and this little pair of pliers helped me prepare hundreds of pieces of 22 gauge metal.

But I use a lot of 18 gauge metal and I even punch holes in hammered down 12 gauge copper sheet so I needed to invest in a new pair of hole punch pliers that states it can specifically handle this gauge. That was really hard to find until I located this pair through monsterslayer.com for $19.99.

While the manufacture claims it can work 18 gauge, and they do seem awfully durable, it is too large for my hands to work comfortably and quickly! So I am back to shopping for a new pair of hole punch pliers, anyone have any suggestions?

I've learned a bit since I started and I know now that I need to lubricate the metal before punching and keep the pliers and punches oiled so they twist through metal more easily. I also need to make sure I do not push it and stay within the manufacture recommended gauge. Keeping my tools out of the heat and humidity as that environment causes rust inside the makings of the steel pliers will also prolong the life of my hole punching pliers. All good money saving tips to know!

Much Love & Respect,

Shannon

missficklemedia.com

I Heart Tools - Speciality Pliers

Here are two new pliers that have piqued my interest.

Wubber's Loop Pliers - create perfect and uniform loops every time with these new pliers from Wubber's.  We all know how to make loops, but if these just look like they would make the job a little easier and perfect for someone who struggles with getting consistent results.

Curve Forming Bracelet Benders - Okay, this tool looks like it could rock my world and  I need it - like yesterday.  It bends metal into a curve replacing the need for an expensive and heavy bracelet mandrel. 

These pliers can be found at MetalClay Supply.  You could use them on etched metal pieces, brass and copper blanks, Vintaj findings and more.

The Bead Smith Mandrel

I bought this;

It was a consolation purchase for not being able to buy this;

I was able to make this with my inexpensive shape maker;

Isn't that awesome!?! I am thinking about wire-wrapping beads to the inside of the links and tying on ribbons to the last links in this particular segment to complete a necklace, but I am eager to get back to shaping metal into large links with my new mandrel that I can solder together for long dramatic chains!

I Heart This Tool!
Much Love & Respect,
Shannon

missficklemedia.com

I Heart Jewelry Tools: The Euro Power Punch

Lately, I've been doming, stamping and generally pounding metal. Often, I want to punch a hole. Awhile ago, I Heart Jewelry Tools reviewed a small Euro hole punch but sometimes you need a larger hole and that means a Euro POWER punch!

(Photo courtesy of Ornamentea.)

I have to admit I don't actually HAVE a Euro Power Punch yet but one is on its way as I write this. I can't wait until it arrives, though. I love hole punching pliers for the sheer convenience. Sometimes you only need to make one hole and taking out a pair of pliers to do it is just easier. In my experience, the hole will need a bit of sanding to clean it up.

Another good reason to use hole punching pliers is if you're hesitant to use power tools, pliers are a good alternative.

The Euro-Power Punch makes 7 different hole sizes and will punch metal up to 16 gauge. That will cover most metal that the average metalsmith uses. According to the Rings n Things website, "Adjustable throat allows you to place holes up to 2" from edge" giving you enough room to use on most jewelry sized metal blanks.

So, if you're looking for a quick way to punch some larger holes in metal or metal blanks, you might want to pick one of these up!

Available from:

Rings n Things

Fundamentals.net

Ornamentea

The Pliers Hierarchy

While raiding your husband's tool box for those first pair of pliers may have worked when your jewelry-making fever first struck, it's always recommended to buy the best tools you can afford.  So what exactly does a good set of pliers run and which ones are the best?  Well, it just so happens that Tracy Stanley gave us the 411 on the Bead Cruise so I thought I'd pass the scoop along to you.

We've featured Lindstrom pliers before and it took me a good 15 years of jewelry making before I finally invested in them.  Ah, what was I waiting for?  These are heaven, your hand never gets tired forming those wrapped loops.  If you have a wish list, put these on it!  Lindstrom pliers are around $50 a pair. They are of the highest quality and will last a lifetime.

A good middle of the road pair are German made pliers.  I actually bought this pair as my first pliers. They are rosary pliers and have a cutter on one side, very handy.  They lasted for many a year until I lost them in a move.  There are other pliers out there of similar quality and price.  Sharilynn Miller wrote a great review on Baby Wubbers.  These pliers range from $20-30 a pair.

And then there are the ones that you use in a pinch or picked up because they were a good deal.  What can I say, we do what we can do, right?  You'll find pliers made in China and Pakistan for $3-10.  The problem with inexpensive pliers is you get what you pay for. Round nose ones may not be round!  There may be mars or imperfections that ruin your wire.  They are not as durable or as comfortable as the higher quality.  So if you are finding results in your wire work that are less than satisfactory, it may not be you, it may be those pliers!

Do you have a favorite brand of pliers to recommend?  We'd love to hear about it.

All photos from Rings & Things.

Cool Tool-Hand Jive

This is a cool little tool I found at Lee Valley. It is a Jewellers Hand Vise that allows your wire to go up through the handle. This way it doesn't add any unwanted kinks.

How cool is that!

A Free and Helpful Tool

I came across this link the other day and now I am sharing it with everyone I know. This is a site to print out paper rulers. I don't know about you but I probably have ten rulers in my studio and still can never find one. This link takes you to printable ones. I printed some out and taped them to my tables. Ha! My problem is solved. I have one at my computer desk because when I am listing my Etsy items, I never have a ruler to measure the size of things. I also have one on my design table for when I making jewelry. I even put one on my craft table just because. The link has all different sizes and lengths. Check it out!

Jennifer Heynen
Jangles

Handy Size Chart

I thought I'd share this handy little chart that I printed out, laminated and keep next to my computer. It's a size chart for cabochons but I use it when I'm buying beads online and want a quick reference to what exactly 15mm looks like in real life! I also use the chart when I'm writing up project instructions or listing items on Etsy.

Download the free chart from Fire Mountain Gems & Beads.

I Heart Jewelry Tools: Metal Hole Punch Pliers

If you're working with metal there are a few tools that come in handy. Frequently I need a hole in a piece of metal, whether it's a bezel I'm going to sew or a disk to hang as a charm. These hole punching pliers from Contenti come in handy so I don't have to break out the drill. (Thank you, Contenti for allowing us to borrow your pictures shown below.)




A quick punch and you have a 1.25mm or 1.8mm hole. I prefer the 1.8mm hole. It's just right for a jump ring or wire. The hole punching pliers shown above will work with metal up to 18 gauge. That fits most sheet metal I've worked with.

Do you have a favorite tool to use with metal?

(written by Cindy Gimbrone, hole punching pliers advocate and glass beadmaker.)

I Heart Jewelry Tools: Wire Wrapping Mandrel

One of my most used tools are these wire wrapping mandrels. I don't have to worry about making inconsistent sized loops when I use these. They come in two sizes, one for smaller diameter loops and a larger size for bigger loops and clasps. I picked up mine for a very reasonable price from the Contenti Company but Widget Supply also has them for about the same price.

(posted by Cindy Gimbrone, WireHead and blogging glass beadmaker.)

I heart tools! BeadGlo Box

I am a sucker for a new tool and this looks really neat to me. I don't do a lot with seed beads but if I did I could see this being helpful. I just like the idea of a portable bead station with a light. Wouldn't it be great in the car? Here are the details of the BeadGlo Box...

The BeadGlo is the perfect accessory for all your beading projects. Easily sort and lay out beads and crystals on an illuminated surface with custom-designed trays. Features a 5”x9” illuminated slanted surface, 9V (AC) power adapter, (optional battery operation), convenient carrying bag, 8000 hour fluorescent bulb, two removable design trays (Necklace Tray& Multi Tray) with covers and two design rulers.

I found it online, but I am sure it will show up in beads stores soon. Check out all of the different trays you can get for it.

Happy Beading!

This post was written by Jennifer Heynen of Jangles.

Twisted Sistah!

Wanna be twisted like your friends?
Try the Twisted Tornado Crimp from Via Murano.
It is the most attractive crimp I have come across.
You can get a package of 50 crimps for a nomimal investment of $9.00.
Run, don't walk (OK click) on over to check these out.
You can even watch a video!

Rock On, My Twisted Sistahs!

Beading Workstation

I like things that make sense. This little workstation really struck a cord with me, it just made sense. It was probably the simple dowel rod to hang your pliers. I don't know about you but my pliers are in various places. You get busy you leave them somewhere, then you can't find them, you pick up another set, etc.
It looks to be portable. This is handy if your workstation moves, it can move with you.
Get all the details at JewelrySupply.com

A Tin with Many Purposes

I love items that have many purposes. This tin can be used to store, travel, work and even display your beading projects.
An 8" x 10" tin that is 1 1/8" deep. Inside it is sporting a jewelers pad and a foam insert so your beads and supplies don't shift in transit.
A portable workstation! I have a bag I take with me when I go places so there is no wasted time. I get strange looks at Doctors office because I'm doing something other than reading a magazine.
This handy dandy tin would even fit in your briefcase to sneek in some beading at the office.
Check out all the details at ViaMurano.com

Beading Poster

I found this poster that would be helpful for beaders and some of our readers.
Designed by Rosanne at Beaded Phoenix.

From Roseanne's website:

"I designed the BEAD & STRING REFERENCE CHART & TIPS BROCHURE because I had my own personal need for this type of product. I needed something I could look at easily, so I could get vital information fast and hands free while designing jewelry, or teaching a bead class. As soon as students and fellow bead artists saw this product, they wanted one for their own use. I love to help folks learn beadwork, and this product is a result of that."
Rosanne Andreas-Author of "Beaded Phoenix Bead & String Reference Chart Poster Set.

NO MORE GUESSING AT:
What size beads should I buy?
What kind of stringing material should I buy?
What kind of needles should I use?
How many beads will I need?
What size do I create the piece?
Is that a treated Gemstone?

ALL THESE QUESTIONS AND MORE WILL BE ANSWERED ONCE YOU OWN "BEADED PHOENIX BEAD & STRING REFERENCE CHART POSTER SET".

Take the mystery out of understanding beading supplies. Spend less time wondering what you need, and more time in producing a quality piece of bead work.

*Poster is shown in Black&White but comes in color.

This is Tacky - Portable Workstation

Those little tiny beads won't go anywhere with
Tacky BOB (Box fOr Beads) hanging around!
These little cases (about the size of a CD case) are lined with acid-free tack.
Pour your beads in the case and you can bead on the run without the fear of your beads spilling everywhere.

Tools a Steampunk doesn't want to be without!

After scoring big at the flea market, a jewelry designer may need to take apart those vintage watches further to mine them for all of those wonderful gears. But if you're like me, you don't have screwdrivers small enough to take the watches apart.


What you need is a set screwdrivers for Watches. I got mine from Contenti which is where I got the photo of this set from. I can take apart my flea market finds and add them to art beads for a true steampunk style!