DIY jewelry making supplies: a beginner's guide (tools & supplies)

Are you a beginner in DIY jewelry making and don't know where to start? With a few essential tools and the right supplies, you can quickly create your first necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. If you want to avoid unnecessary purchases and achieve a polished look from your very first creations, this page will guide you step by step.

At Gingerlily, we select materials for creating DIY jewelry suitable for beginners: simple tools, easy-to-assemble components, essential findings and finishing accessories to learn with peace of mind.

The essential materials for getting started in DIY jewelry making

To begin, you don't need to buy everything. Here's the basic setup you need:

• Flat clamp : for holding rings and stabilizing components.
• Cutting pliers : for cutting rods, wires, chains.
• Round pliers : for forming neat loops (eyelet nails, fasteners).
• Jump rings : essential for connecting chain, pendant and clasp.
• Clasps : for finishing necklaces and bracelets.

Tip: Choose pliers that are comfortable to hold. A good tool makes assembly easier and gives cleaner finishes.

Easy supplies to get started (without making mistakes)

For your first creations, choose components that are simple to assemble and compatible with each other:

• Chains : ideal base for an easy necklace (add a pendant, charm or bead).
• Pendants / charms : to quickly personalize a piece of jewelry with a unique style.
• Beads : round, faceted or heishi for creating bracelets and necklaces.
• Flat head/eyelet nails : perfect for mounting a tassel bead.
• Extension chains : to adjust the length and improve comfort.

For a durable and comfortable finish, choose components suited to the intended use of the jewelry (daily wear, gift, personalized jewelry).

DIY project ideas for beginners (simple and very effective)

• Minimalist necklace : chain + pendant + clasp (quick and very elegant assembly).
• Elastic bracelet : beads + elastic thread + a central bead (easy and rewarding).
• Earrings : a pearl mounted on a post + attachment (result in “jewelry” in a few minutes).

Creation scenario: Choose a chain, add a pendant and a micro-charm, then finish with a clasp and an extension chain. You get a clean, balanced piece of jewelry that's easy to give as a gift.

Perfecting the finishing touches (the detail that makes all the difference)

The finishing touches make all the difference between a "handmade" piece of jewelry and one with a truly refined look. For a clean assembly:

• Open your connecting rings by rotating them (and not by pulling them apart).
• check the compatibility of sizes (bead holes, stem thickness, mesh width).
• Add an extension chain to improve comfort.
• Use matching components for a harmonious result.

Access useful collections to get started

• Jewelry tools (pliers, accessories)
• Essential findings (rings, clasps, etc.)
• Jewelry chains
• Beads for DIY creations
• Charms & Pendants

👉 See all the materials you need to get started with DIY jewelry : access the collection

FAQ — Beginner DIY Jewelry Supplies

What kind of pliers do I need to get started?
Flat pliers, cutting pliers and round-nose pliers are sufficient for most assemblies.

What is the simplest project to start with?
A chain necklace + pendant + clasp: quick, clean and very rewarding.

Do you need to buy a lot of supplies initially?
No. Start with a small assortment of findings, a chain, a few pendants, and some easy-to-mount beads.

How to achieve clean finishes?
Use suitable rings, open them by rotation, and choose compatible components (sizes, holes, thickness).

How to choose between gold, silver or stainless steel?
The choice depends on the desired style. Stainless steel is very durable, while gold adds a warm and chic touch.

Other jewelry supplies and tools are available at the Gingerlily shop.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only and are not contractually binding.