10 Tips For Creating Better Jewelry!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

❇Make sure to check out my online store where you will find everything you see in my videos and more! www.kelliesbeadboutique.com ❇

[@darlaboyle1074]

I've been beading for many many years and I learned 4 things today. So, Thank You. Soft Flex is the Cadillac of wires, don't scrimp on your crimps 😁, don't let your wires cross while crimping (I didn't think it mattered) and trim to the crimp bead. I always tucked my wire into the bead too. I always thought, if that crimp comes undone, I'll know if failed before I lose a bead. And yes, I have been poked and jabbed by that little wire. So thanks again, Kelly. You're awesome!!!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks Darla!

[@clarajones7646]

I have been in started beading in the 70's plus working with the eldery for the last 45 years. I find people that use their hands has more brain cells. I am 85 years and try to make one bracelet aday. And I live alone. Whe you see a person setting idle, fingers not moving ,that brain isn't growing. Thank you so very much for all your wonderful tips. God Bless you............

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Hi Clara! I’m so glad that you keep yourself busy and what better way than beading. Thanks for watching my videos. Have a wonderful day. ❤️

[@brandybobandy2194]

#10 just changed my life. I'm not kidding! I have always hated crimping because of struggling with that darn tail (I was taught the same way you were). It's great to know that if I crimp properly, I can just cut it flush! Thank you!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Glad it helped!

[@tracisusong6991]

Yeah I always left it too

[@ΑκηςΑεκ]

@@KelliesBeadBoutique Kellie...................I already love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@madqueen6632]

Thank you for these tips! I've barely used beading wire (I always use thread) or crimps because crimps scare me. LOL. I just never could figure out how to do the properly. Now I know!! Also, I never knew what beading wire was actually good. Again, now I know! :)

[@leighanneboles4386]

Same here!

[@teresad.robinette3233]

Thank you , No 10, I have been doing that for 20+ years, damn tail! Won't be doing that anymore.

[@virginiagaviati2643]

Thank you Kellie, I've been leaving that little tail and has caused problems. Will restring properly. Great tips and teaching, thanks💗

[@kathymiller3649]

Thank you for your time it is very helpful I for one need the guidelines they really help me

[@hkremer2167]

These are the best tips! I struggle with crimping and the tail - like others here. Thanks for your informative friendly style of teaching!

[@sarahfortune1170]

Thank you, Kellie, for taking the time to give us some great tips. All 10 of them helped lots. Have a blessed and safe life.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks Sarah!

[@jo351]

you said you used German jewelry tools... is there a specific brand you prefer?

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Not really. I use to carry them but they tend to be pretty pricey these days.

[@conniealford1020]

Great great tips!! I think you should do a video like this once a month. I'd love to learn why we do things the way we do or, like today learn a better way of doing it. As a newbie, I would be so grateful to learn new techniques. My favourite today was cutting off the crimping wire. I did not know that. I also loved the wire loop technique you use. I do it similarly but you added some necessary steps that I did not know to do. Thank you, my dear. Very good info. 💜🦋😷✌

[@evaescamilla8173]

Great tips, thank you so much

[@GrilTBooth]

Very helpful! Thank you! Great tips about crimping, among others!:-)

[@siobhancashman]

Thank you Kellie. The one tip I loved the most was #10 and wow! What an enlightenment. I also love the jump ring tip. I knew to twist and not pull but I did not know about the bent nose plier. I will be doing it that way from now on.

[@dotmarshalldotyart]

Thank you Kelly, I watch most of your videos and find them very very helpful, I have been making polymer clay and resin jewellery for years now and mostly buy the made up cords. Now I am progressing to beaded pieces so this video was just what I needed, I didn’t know how to crimp but now I do. Once again thank you so much you are a huge help. I’m from Australia and most of the materials I buy on line from America.

[@bethanyi4871]

Do you usually use Crimp Covers? If so, what kind and how do you do it?

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

I sometimes use them. I will do them in a tutorial.

[@valentina1957ful]

Thankyou for this tutorial . Its very helpful …👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🌞🌞🌞🍀🍀🍀🌻🌻🌻

[@SoftFlexCompany]

Kellie, this is a fantastic video. So many wonderful tips! I added this to our latest blog and linked up your store and social media. Thanks for the love! ~Thomas

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@leigh9354]

I am a soft flex junkie!!! I only use it as well!!

[@judiewoodward9756]

You are the best.You explain so anyone can do this.Thanks.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks Judie!

[@juliebergacker5680]

Wonderful. THANK YOU😁👏👍. I finally learned a lot. Yay. I was told about leaving that “ tail “ to 🤣😂😁💕again loved it ALL 👍👍👍👍👍

[@jaculinkittel732]

You're the best teacher! 🤩

[@pdrey55]

I’ve made one with just 8-0s. Doesn’t stick out so much. I have some hematite 6/0 going to try next! Can Not Stop Making These!💕

[@heathergraham6161]

Excellent explanations. I've never understood the importance of having that bent nose pliers, or the step-by-step analysis of the Loop and wire wrap around. Also I never understood exactly how the Crips work and how the crossing of the wire is what's making my crimps unstable. Thank you!

[@teeann7889]

Very helpful video. Tip#10 was one I'd never heard before. I'd always seen people leave that tail "for extra support." Now I know better. :-)

[@sherroniopa6274]

I must admit I have some bad habits to overcome ..... yikes! Thanks for the great tips. Much appreciated.

[@nadineglomboski1852]

Awesome video. I have a BIG problem with wire wrapping...never looks right. Today I will practice and practice. I have always left the tail on and crimping has always been my nemesis. Unfortunately I just purchased small round crimps from Fire Mtn. I have the proper tool, so it must be my technique which I need to work on. Thanks again Kellie...I will save this video to refer to until I get it right. Next is the barrel knot. I am waiting for the tube to come in and I will watch your video to make it. Love your channel and your tutorials.

[@debbiecobb5757]

Wow thank you! I have learned a ton today. Number 10 I have learned over watching many that you always tuck your tail into a few beads, I would always end up with a mess and frustrated. Hopefully I will also be able to do nice loops and wrapped loops! I'm excited to get to work on some pieces I've been wanting to do! I love you Kellie your the best teacher ever! 💕💕

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you so much Debbie. I appreciate you watching.

[@dinajenkins2076]

Hi Kellie, it’s me again Dina LOL i’m just full of questions tonight. Since I think the thread that I have is too thin to be secure as I think it should be could you recommend what I should use besides the beading wire? This rug that I have is only .50 thickness This is why I’m afraid to put these nice beads on that thread. I feel like it could break quickly. Thank you so much for all your advice I really value your opinion. Dina Jenkins with Dj Designs

[@tracy-marie]

I love Soft Flex wire

[@sk13ppy]

Hi Kellie, thanks so much for another awesome video! 💖 I really understand what you're saying about not having a tail after the crimp, it worries me that the crimp might slide off especially if it is snagged on clothing. Like you, I've been tucking the tail into the beads for uniformity as well as strength, because if the crimp was dislodged it has further to travel if the tail isn't docked right beside the crimp. However, I will try the tailless method and will continue to do that last little squeeze with the pliers. At the moment I'm still using Wildfire by Beadalon and a while ago I watched a video where a guy kept the tail tucked into a few beads, then used a cigarette lighter to singe a tiny bit of the tail so it can't escape. Don't singe the Wildfire wire too much or it will look like a bead itself!

[@marytakegami262]

Great tips on crimping !! It is important to crimp properly, and I don't think I was taught anything about it. Watched other videos, and it is important that your flex wire does not cross, and your crimp is properly positioned, and your tool is used properly as well. I've had the soft flex slide out of the crimp bead, and was afraid to use the soft flex because of this. I would love making more bracelets, but using the stretch cord may eventually break, and the thought of having added semi precious gem stones, and falling apart would be a disaster. Now that I have the proper instructions, I can confidently start making more bracelets with soft flex and gem stones.

[@smac3662]

Kellie, I noticed that you are fighting skin issues like I have with my illness. After researching; I have bought and used effectively soap made of bay leaf and olive oil ( at least 70% or higher ). The bay leaf ( Laurel leaf ) is a natural healer and the Olive oil adds enough moisture to the skin without an oily feeling afterwards. It's also referred as Aleppo cold processed soap and is easily found online. I tried many things over the years and this is the only thing that healed my skin problem. My best wishes and thanks.

[@monicatugade6726]

Hi Kelly, I enjoined watching your videos and I have to stop being so nice. I've been selling my jewelry pieces for cheap, well not no more. Thanks

[@dinajenkins2076]

Hi Kellie, I also had another question I am making my husband a bracelet for his birthday and I am using Swarovski Crystal skull with onyx beads. I was wanting to make it with a thread so that I could use that one slide type of class but I just don’t know if that’s going to be a safe material to use for a long lasting affect. Please let me know if I could use the thread and not worry about that breaking or if I should just stick with the soft flex beading wire. Thanks! Dina Jenkins DJ designs

[@dinajenkins2076]

Hi Kelli, It’s been along time since I’ve been able to watch any videos because I’ve had a lot of personal things going on in my life. I’ve had to stop making jewelry to for a while but I’m about to go back at it. And I remembered you telling me that there’s no metal out there that won’t tarnish except for like 14 karat gold or better and I was wondering what do you the department stores use? I really don’t think they have somebody cleaning those necklaces hanging on the racks, so I wondered if you knew what kind of material that is and why they do not tarnish before they’re sold. Thanks for all these cool tips I need all the help I can get LOL. Dina Jenkins DJ designs

[@cayce9320]

Thanks Kelly... this helps! What is the brand/model of bent chain nose pliers and chain nose pliers do you use (German I think)? I need both of these and want to investigate the ones you use. I know good tools are not cheap, but want to explore them and maybe add them to my Christmas list :)

[@karentaylor5256]

Enjoyed the tips 👌I think that will helpa lot. Thanks for sharing 👍Have a blessed day.

[@denisebellamy551]

I hate crimps getting better but I struggle. Switching to crimp tube I think will add to lesson my struggle thx.

[@nellysanabria6860]

Hello I really liked your video, I made the mistake left the wire, but now I'm going to do it correctly. Thanks Maybe, you cant make more tips videos?

[@kasie1737]

Thank you. I have wasted so many pins trying to do wrapped loops. I can get the initial loop, but when the wrapping starts, it all goes downhill. I can see where maybe changing how I hold the pliers will help. Maybe I can upgrade to where it only looks like a child did it. (I usually end up taking them out and doing a simple loop.) I also have always done the tails, but am fairly good at crimping, so will try to relax with the cutting of the tail.

[@dalemills7926]

BTW, that part about making the wrap loop ...it was the hardest thing to teach them to move your wrist instead of anything else....all of these tutorial parts were perfect..loved that you cared enough about your work to do it right ..

[@dmichelleconway7628]

Hi Kellie, thank you tip 10 was a new one I was taught to leave the tail. I was wondering could you do a class on measuring for a bracelet or a necklace? I seem to think I have the math right but in the end it’s to big

[@malcolmdavies2921]

Amazing thank you so much from all us newbies 👏👏👏

[@edithkurashige1483]

Five Stars Class, ¡¡¡ Thanks so much Kellie ♡♡♡!!!

[@myrnajose5421]

Very informative and keeping me on the right direction. Thank you so much.

[@evesmith5752]

Thank you Kellie, I love your tutorials! I have been making and stringing my own polymer beads for a long time but I always learn something new when I watch you! Thank you for sharing your knowledge! Evie Smith Designs, Australia.

[@tammyflores7862]

I have been beading for 15 years and I found this the most informative information that I have yet come across. I have been holding my tools wrong and pushing those little tips wrong!!! Thanks for showing me the way.

[@imsodone4309]

Great tips. I’ve always struggled with the wrapped loop. I do a lot of beading and not so much with crimping and wire. This is all very helpful, because I was never actually taught how to do either correctly. I just learned from watching different people on a KZbin, and sometimes it’s hard to see how something is being done. You did a great job of explaining and demonstrating both. This is my first time to visit this channel. I subscribed and I will be back. Thanks.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you so much for watching and subscribing!

[@lindakirk698]

Wish I had seen this video 10 yrs ago. It would have saved me a few grunts under my breath. I learnt the hard way! Good session Kellie x

[@maryh1421]

Thanks for the many helpful tips. My fav was don't leave a tail.

[@kathystuart3554]

Such a great teacher! I love all of your leather bracelet designs too. You are the best.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you Kathy!

[@kathleencrecelius9385]

Thank you, thank you and thank you! I need to learn how to put on a crimp cover.

[@shanesmith7897]

We don't get Softflex in South Africa...so we make do.....

[@zizibressa4251]

Very nice tips. You teach very well. Thank you

[@karenleigh2786]

I found it very informational, thank you Great tips

[@iuliaa1876]

Grazie Kelly, sono al inizio, spero di poter creare anch'io un attività piccola e modesta. Grazie per i tuoi consigli. Un abbraccio.

[@heatherferguson265]

Super! Many thanks. Crimping ...

[@cookielee6]

Thank you for teaching us and your great tips!!

[@Amy-jq6ul]

Thank you so much for this! I wish I'd seen this a year ago!

[@pamelaecovert193]

Great video Kellie. Very helpful and I really enjoyed it.

[@dinajenkins2076]

I loved all your tips Kellie whether I knew how to do it the right way or not. Dina

[@susane945]

Thanks for the great tips Kellie! 😊👍🍍

[@jonirainey448]

If i use the soft flex 0.19/ 26 # wire and 2 x 2 crimp tube, what size of crimp cover do i need to buy? Thanks for the video, very helpful!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

I usually use a 4mm crimp cover.

[@DrCaseyScraper]

Thank you! Finally I understand how to do a wrapped loop and know to cut off those tails!! 🥰

[@katherinedewey5604]

I enjoy your company I can get it to work better now thanks

[@shirley071000]

Kellie-best beading tips ever! Most beading teachers assume we know how to do these important skills. I especially liked the hand positions for making wire wraps-you make it so clear. WOW! So worth the time to watch and refer to when making future projects. You get a Gold Star for this one-as usual.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you Shirley!

[@debbiechristian1697]

excellent tips. thanks for sharing.

[@lindabarnes6605]

How to crimp that is what I struggle with. Thanks

[@yaver999]

Great Tips, thank you Kellie!

[@marymogck3321]

I agree about Soft Flex, only wire I use.

[@rhondacargil1458]

….awesome Kellie!!!….I could listen/learn from you all day long!!…great artist and teacher!…thank you!!!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

❤️❤️

[@sylviahall5667]

I was taught to leave a tail so thank you Kellie it should save wire as well as making things easier

[@dollysheweil8175]

Thank you.Thank you. You very good teacher

[@anitahoward8506]

Great instructions... Thanks :).

[@gigicampbell9847]

Ok I am SO glad I watched this! I’ve been making jewelry for 20yrs and almost didn’t think this was worth watching, however I learned something new! I was always taught to string flex wire back into the bead for the same reason: extra support. And I struggled with hole sizes and sometimes things broke and I had no idea why! Now I’m finding out you can actually cut at the end of your crimp bead???? And it works???? Total game changer!!!!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@margaretbarker2453]

Cutting the tail so close scary but will do in future

[@KYATKAT]

really enjoyed this video ... thanks

[@lisamw101]

YOU are such a great teacher... I stumbled upon your site yesterday and have been hooked. I started my shopping cart with your kits - I just really need to get into something therapeutic for my mind right now and I choose your classes to teach me something new and wow.. YOU are awe-inspiring. thank you for these videos. You know that saying: WHEN THE STUDENT IS READY - THE TEACHER WILL COME.. I so agree

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks so much Lisa! ❤️❤️❤️

[@sheriswanson9895]

What do you recommend for stretch cord? My Granddaughter likes stretching her bracelets, and I’m feeling, I maybe just didn’t have good quality,.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

This is the best product and the only thing I use. www.kelliesbeadboutique.com/Beadalon-Elastic-8mm-5-metres-p/je.08t-0005m.htm

[@leighanneboles4386]

Thank you, Kellie, for your thorough explanations ... you're the best kind of teacher, as your thoughtfulness and concern shine through.😊

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Wow, thank you!

[@carylfontaine3640]

Wow!!! I am learning to do things the correct way, finally! Thanku from the bottom of my artist heart, you are THE best in every way. I wish I found you years ago Kellie. Sincerely, Caryl in Vermont ⛷🏂🎿🛷⛸

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks so much Carly! ❤️❤️❤️

[@tangojuli209]

I had to laugh at some of these tips--I was self-taught but watched a zillion videos 10-12 years ago and bought every mag. Crimping was the bane of my existance even with hundreds of bracelets and earrings sold. I finally figured out that the cheap crimps in silver plate plus the wire crossing were the cause of all the necklace breaks. I have never tried to sell necklaces for crimp phobia and the HORROR of a return :) I was sceptical for about a year about cutting the tails, but now, with sterling crimps (or beadsmith 2x2 tubes) and cutting the tails and working out how to get it Just So --not too tight, not too loose. My new collection this summer features all kinds of necklaces. I over came my fear :) wish I'd a had tthis vid some 10 years ago!!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

😘😘😘

[@msbratt55]

After watching your informative video - no wonder things just didn't flow properly. This caused me to be self conscience as to whether my jewelry was going to hold together.... Oh MY!! Thanks so very much!! I need to watch you several more times!! Al your 10 tips were my Achille's heel of my jewelry making!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

I’m glad they helped!

[@vickiford8119]

Tip #11. Always use Softflex crimps. Years and years ago I quit wasting my time and money on cheap crimps. Then I got the Magical crimping tool, no need for a crimp cover. Game Changer!!

[@vickiford8119]

By the way..... I love your videos.

[@chrisgunderson8486]

Crimping is hard! My wires always cross, I bet 60 percent of the time, they just have minds of their own. THANKYOU for the tips, u are awesome. I always left the little tail of wire, now I know, if I crimp right I don’t need to do that. And of you don’t crimp right you can’t fold it nice and neat.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

I’m so glad it helped!

[@CyberTrainer]

Thanks for the tips, Kellie and sharing your expertise. I, too, was taught to insert the crimp wire into a bead (or two) after crimping, and have been poked as a result. Also, thanks for the Soft Flex is the Cadillac of wire. It's soo confusing to know what material are quality when you are relatively new to jewelry making. I've only been making jewelry since 2013 and do it has a hobby now, but plan on making it a business before I retire from my job in 5 years.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks for watching!

[@twomisfithippies9790]

I've been trolling you for quite a while now... well, since the pandemic! :) I've loved making jewelry since I was a teen (I'm now 60), and currently have my own Etsy store. I've learned so much from you and my confidence is gaining everyday. I enjoy designing my own styles and you have given me so much inspiration over these past several months. Thank you so much! By the way... what did I learn today? No tail left after crimping? YAY! I was taught the same way and always hated that tail sticking out from my beautiful designs. Peace, and be well!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you so much!

[@kathrynsmith2684]

I am a self confessed jewellery making tool snob....LOL....might as well own up to it. LOL 😉 Also, a jewellery supply snob while I am at it. 😂. Only the best I can buy and LOTS OF IT!!! Can you imagine if you had a dollar for every wire wrapped loop you have made over the years Kellie? A millionaire at least, by now. The first person who showed me about leaving a tail on the beading wire, still does it today. I disagreed with that technique and did it your way. Just makes sense to me. Great job of these jewellery making basics Kellie, everyone should watch these tips. Good thing I was doing them correctly all this time.....LOL......Otherwise I’d have to hang my head in shame.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks Kathryn! Yes. I can actually make a wrapped look with my eyes closed. From start to finish. If I could have been paid for each one I could have retired by now. LOL

[@donnadenevan-lynch4022]

Excellent video, especially the last tip!

[@dalemills7926]

As a 71 yr old grandmother and have taught for many years..you are on spot ! You're right about soft flex..I made a necklace with cheap from Wal-Mart then same one from Soft flex....it will make a soft pillow when putting the necklace in your palm..cheap will never do that

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thank you so much! 😍😍😍

[@campingwithchrissy]

Thank you, you are truly amazing. I love how you explain everything. I'm a self-taught designer. I always look to learn more every day!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks so much! ❤️

[@boopdiva]

I love soft flex too! A little bit at a time to build up stock!

[@dkrzyston8485]

Hi Kelly, Great tips video. I have one question...Is there a trick to crimp your bracelet end when you’re using a magnet closure? The closure wants attach to my crimping tool. Thanks for sharing your wonderful talents.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks Debby! The trick is to keep the magnets apart. That will help immensely. I appreciate you watching!

[@margaretkuchenreuther3834]

Some very helpful tips - your explanations are spot on! I have a question about where to source high quality head pins and eye pins. Many I’ve purchased work well for simple loops but seem too rigid to allow for making really neat wrapped loops. It really seems like the wire should be dead soft for that application. I appreciate any guidance you can provide!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

I can only speak to what I sell. I can make a nice wrapped loop with our balled headpins. They are a heavy gauge but I think that’s what I used in this video.

[@doraclay1]

Great tips, Kellie! I live on the opposite side of North America I just discovered your video channel and am learning so much. You explain techniques in great detail, details matter so much when it comes to making a quality finished jewelry piece. I've always struggled with skills like crimping and making wrapped loops, so thanks for the great instruction. I enjoy all your videos for using leather and macramé, I've been primarily a seed beader the last few years and I'm excited to try something that doesn't require staring at teeny tiny beads for hours at a time, LOL!

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks so much for watching! ❤️

[@johnnaatkins7324]

Wow! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Great tips and tricks. I still get absolutely nervous with open jump rings failing even though I have learned how to do them properly. I'm fairly new to jewelry design and have a wonderful little following, but always so afraid of a piece breaking on someone. I love the tail tip too. Was it Kate Richbourg who taught you? I watch her and Janice all the time and now you as well. Such a lovely world of beading I've been introduced to. Everyone is so helpful and sharing of their creativity. It's very refreshing in this crazy world. I'm learning and practicing everyday to better my product and creations. I have to learn to find my worth like you said in another video, but I'll get there lol. Thank you again! Such a pleasure.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks so much Johanna. No, it was another Kate but I have taken classes from Kate Richbourg a few times. ❤️❤️❤️

[@terryrusselleverydayguy1613]

Just found your channel and I am now a subsciber. I have been beading for a long time. Getting into great products now. Making my own jump rings and earring hooks etc. Really enjoyed this video.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

Thanks for watching and subscribing!

[@dianedelille9110]

Excellant video! Good teacher!

[@cathysmith9026]

Thank you. I've learned something today especially tip no.10.

[@KelliesBeadBoutique]

💖💖💖