jewelry making tips
Best Beading Tools Used for Making Jewelry
by Erica Stice
Learn what you need to start beading! We've gathered up a list of the beading tools, components, and supplies you'll want to have ready. We also have a video on finishing your beaded jewelry ends along with lots of helpful tips.
Jewelry Wire Work Tips from Melissa Muir
Learn wire jewelry frame fabrication tips from one of our preferred studio teachers, Melissa Muir. She shows you step by step how to make this gorgeous wire work cuff using Halstead’s Sterling silver supplies and a beautiful cabochon!
5 Creative Uses for Jump Rings in Jewelry Making
by Erica Stice
Play around with jump rings! I had a fun day playing in the studio with a few extra jump rings I had. Just laying them out on the bench and moving them around brought up a few ideas. These are quick assembly and soldering pieces that are perfect for beginners.
Top 5 Reasons Silver Solder Doesn't Flow
by Erica Stice
Solder not flowing? Find out the reasons why. Jewelry soldering can be frustrating at times, but with the right knowledge, you can quickly troubleshoot the problems.
Soldering Gold-Filled: Tips for Success & Troubleshooting
by Erica Stice
We receive more questions about gold-filled items than any other products here at Halstead. We have addressed many material issues in past articles. But, this piece will focus on how to solder gold-filled jewelry items and the issues that may arise. Soldering gold-filled is tricky and requires knowledge about the material before you attempt it.
5 Ways to Elevate your Stamped Jewelry with New Techniques
by Erica Stice
Hand stamping jewelry is a great way to create a personalized collection. If you add soldering, or any of these techniques, to the mix you'll be able to elevate your collection easily!
Soldering Copper & Brass Metals in the Jewelry Studio
by Erica Stice
Copper and brass are fun materials to work with in the jewelry studio. They are beautiful in their own right and they are perfect for learning new techniques. But, soldering these metals raises unique issues in design and technical execution. Learn more from our studio coordinator, Erica Stice.
How to Pick Solder in the Jewelry Studio
by Erica Stice
If you have a small piece or want a precise join without a lot of solder flowing, learn to pick solder. Pick soldering minimizes solder messes and heat on your jewelry piece to prevent melting disasters. Add this skill to your bench resume today.
Soldering Wire Embellishments to the Surface of your Jewelry Designs
by Erica Stice
Soldered wire accents allow you to create geometric designs with a line drawing feel. But, soldering thin wires onto sheet metal is a challenge. Our very own Studio Coordinator, Erica Stice, has some tips and a video.
How to Sweat Solder 14kt Gold to Sterling Silver
by Erica Stice
Use 14kt gold solder ornaments on sterling silver jewelry blanks to create unique mixed metal jewelry pieces. Erica Stice is breaking down the sweat soldering process so you can add this great technique to your jewelry making skills.
