Supplies :: Findings, beads and gemstones

by Folksy Support September 10, 2010

written by Folksy Support September 10, 2010

Jewellery Supplies on Folksy by Jo Reed

Introducing Jo Reed of Finding Beadtopia, who will be writing our monthly Jewellery supplies update! If it involves beads, findings, gemstones, crystals or any aspect of jewellery making then Jo is on the case! If you missed last weeks fabric supplies round up click here.

FEATURED SUPPLIER! – RUBY & DIG

Ruby and Dig are a husband & wife team who live in Yorkshire with their two sons. Each has their own Folksy shop ‘Dig The Earth’ and ‘Ruby Spirit Designs’ but combine their skills and creativity in this collaborative venture.

Ruby and Dig, originally a de-stash shop has evolved very quickly and they now take great pleasure in sourcing beautiful vintage beads which can be salvaged and cleaned ready to be re-loved. Tracy sources the stock and puts together handpicked vintage mixes while Kev takes the photos and handles the graphics.

“We believe that it’s good to be able to buy a simple mix of coordinating items, without having to buy large quantities of each bead. As a family we are very keen on recycling, and we try to extend this into our shops. It’s so sad that people throw things like jewellery away when it breaks, there are so many beautiful things going to landfill every day! “

Kev’s excellent photo’s and clear listings mean you will know exactly what you are purchasing from Ruby and Dig and it’s all inspirational.

FOLKSY FINDS! Keys to Success

Click the images for more details!

JEWELLERS TIPS! – Finishing Touches

We all want our jewellery to be durable and to look great. Here are some of the bits and bobs to keep in your kit for those finishing touches.

Wire guardians – feed the end of your beading wire through the wire guardian to create a well finished loop and protect the wire from wear and tear. Available in various finishes and sizes.

Crimp covers – no matter how high the quality of your crimp tubes or the steadiness of your hand crimps can still spoil a beautiful piece. Covering them with crimp covers may seem a little belt and braces but will improve the look enormously.

Bead Caps – even the most beautiful lamp work bead can be enhanced by bead caps, keep lots to hand and buy yummy ones whenever you see them.

Extender Chains – necks come in all shapes and sizes, allow for this by designing in flexibility.

Wrapped Loops – nobody wants beads all over the floor and the wrapped loop is a much more secure way to attach them. A skill well worth mastering if it currently leaves you all fingers and thumbs. Use longer length soft headpins to practice with.

Packaging – Gift boxes, bows, organza bags, we all love a little wrapping to make us feel special.

Jo Reed @ Finding Beadtopia