Everything You Need to Know About Jewelry Making Tools
Nov 16th 2019
The art and craft of making jewelry.
If you are just taking up jewelry making as a hobby, or turning your hobby into a business, there are a few tools you will need. From the basics like wire cutters and pliers to more advanced or specialty tools like anvils and bench blocks, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about jewelry making tools. Keep reading for a complete guide to jewelry making as a hobby and the tools you will need to get started.
The Basics of Jewelry Making Tools
There are some tools you will need no matter what type of jewelry you make. These items are helpful for cutting string and wire, making loops, and holding smaller items. While pliers and wire cutters may not seem glamourous, they are essential jewelry tools for any crafter.
Wire Cutters
You will be using your wire cutters a lot, so be sure they are high quality and durable. If you want one tool that does it all, look for a pair of wire cutters that can handle both soft and hard wire. Standard wire cutters should not be used with memory wire, though. There is a specialty tool made for that purpose.
Magnifiers
Magnifiers are essential to keep from straining your eyes. Also, they can help your jewelry making work turn out impeccable with an added attention to detail. You can find magnifiers that offer various ranges of zoom as well as a light or tweezer add on.
Pliers
There are several different types of pliers that are used for jewelry making. These jewelry tools can help you grip small items like beads and wire and create loops when needed. Sometimes you can purchase a variety of pliers as part of a jewelry tool set. These sets may include items like round nose pliers, chain nose pliers, and flat nose pliers.
Specialty Jewelry Making Tools
If you find yourself working with metal or beads, there are several other tools to add to your toolkit. Jewelry tools for shaping metal, punching holes, and handling beads can make your life so much easier and make the jewelry making process less tedious.
Punch Sets
Punch sets are necessary for punching holes in a wide range of materials while you make jewelry. They are commonly used to punch a hole through leather or vinyl as well as different types of plastic or paper. Punch sets include several sizes so that you can create the perfect sized hole for your jewelry making project.
Hole Punches
Similar to punch sets, hole punches can be purchased individually. You can select the exact size hole punch you need for your jewelry making project and choose the type of hole punch that works best for your materials. Revolving leather punches are popular among jewelry makers because they offer a variety of punch head sizes in one convenient tool.
Bench Blocks
If you are punching holes or stamping metal, a bench block is a must-have item. This jewelry tool is often made of metal or rubber and provides a flat surface for making jewelry. They absorb the shock from hammers or punches and reduce the amount of marring to your jewelry item.
Anvils
A jeweler’s anvil is the perfect tool for forming, bending, or repairing jewelry items. Typically made of steel, these jewelry tools are ideal for crafters who do wire work as well as silversmiths and blacksmiths. You can use an anvil to shape metal or handle hammering pieces of metal for your jewelry work.
Beading Tools
For jewelers and crafters dealing with beads, there are many tools that could come in handy. From bead reamers to enlarge or smooth the holes on beads to bead tubes that hold all of your supplies, beading tools are essential to the creation of beautiful jewelry projects. Don’t forget to grab bead scoops and holding tweezers to grip your beads for easy use.
Find all of the tools you need at the Hobby Tool Stop!
Jewelers can find all of the jewelry tools they need at the Hobby Tool Stop. As your one stop shop for jewelry tools and hobby materials, you can find a wide range of high quality items. From pliers and hole punches to anvils and bench blocks, the Hobby Tool Stop has it all!