When you start learning yourjewellery making skills maybe the best way to start is to make new jewellery from old. Begin your new hobby by starting by starting to by restringing old and unfashionable necklaces. Some of the best pieces of handmade jewellery that I have created have been made from beads that I have taken from old and broken pieces of jewellery.



Before you start your projects you are going to have to source your materials. The best places to do this are places like charity shops and getting up early at the weekend to go and treasure hunt at car boot sales. You can come across many unique

jewellery finds at places like antique shops, market stalls, and charity shops and don't forget to keep looking in the local press for when there are local fetes and jumble sales. All of these places are great places to find beautiful and interesting pieces of jewellery that people have no more need of. Also you can ask family and friends if they have any jewellery pieces that they no longer wear as most people have things tucked in the back of a drawer that they do not use anymore.

Restringing necklaces is the best way to start with new jewellery projects. You will have to start by deciding the type of thread that you will use and this will depend on the type of beads you are using. Silk is the traditional thread that is used when stringing beads and this can also be used when stringing some semi-precious

jewellery. When you are using heaver beads like porcelain and metal beads you are better using tiger tail which is many strands of fine wire that has been twisted and coated in plastic. This is available in different widths depending on the size of the holes in the beads. If you are designing ethnic designs you are probably using beads that are made from wood, clay, bone or plastic. The holes in these beads may allow you to use waxed cotton, leather or suede to thread the beads onto.

If your jewellery project is to make a pair of beaded

earrings then you will need headpins and ear hooks and some small metal or matching or contrasting roccaille beads. The small beads are because you will find that the holes in most beads are too big for the head pins and you will need these small beads to stop the other beads falling off.

Whichever jewellery project you choose I am sure that you will have lots of fun in choosing your beads and designing your jewellery. You will be able to make pieces to match and contrast you outfits and be able to make presents and gifts for your family and friends. Take your time and take inspiration from all the many different styles and designs that can be seen in the shops and in many fashion

jewellery magazines.