Discover the reasons and techniques for cleaning enamel prior to application, through these simple illustrated instructions.
Multi-Strand Necklace
This crazy lace agate and Czech glass necklace project includes crimp tubes with loops, multiple chains and a side closure. Make your own with Tammy Honaman's how-to video!
What is Polymer Clay?
Want to know more about polymer clay? Read on to learn what itās made of, what it can be used for and how to cure clay designs.
Metal Jewelry: Finishing and Polishing
Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman shows how to finish and polish metal jewelry.
Bezels
Bezels are an ideal finding to use when you're working with cabochons and flat back crystals. Tammy Honaman, author and jewelry-making expert, is here to tell you all about them.
Non-Marring Wire-Wrapping Pliers
Looking for wireworking pliers that won't mar wire or metal sheet? Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman shares pliers that wonāt make marks on wire in this informative article.
Work Hardening Metal
Jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman explores work hardening metal in this informative article. Learn how to make gold, sterling silver, sterling silver-filled, copper, brass, bronze and nickel metal rigid or malleable to suit your design needs.
Enamels in Jewelry-Making
Author and jewelry-making expert Tammy Honaman provides you with plenty of tips and tricks for using enameling in your own jewelry-making processes.
The Differences Between Soft and Hard Soldering
Tammy Honaman shows you the tools and techniques needed for soft and hard soldering.
Torch-Fired Enameling for Jewelry
The benefits of torch-firing enamel can be incredible for your designs as you don't need to rely on a bulky kiln. The end result is beautiful enameled beads and metal just for you.
Cold Connections
Using cold connections can really change how your jewelry comes together. Find out what metalsmithing master Tammy Honaman says are some of the best tools for cold connecting metal.
Stringing and Jewelry-Making Fundamentals
Bead stringing is the backbone of many designs; the rest can be done with a few jewelry-making fundamentals. Learn the fundamentals you need to create your own jewelry lines.
Intro to Leather
Have you never worked with leather before? It can be tough (heh) sometimes but donāt worry, Tammy Honaman is here to guide you like only a jewelry-making expert can.
Sterling Silver-Filled Wire and Findings
Find the answers to your questions about sterling silver-filled wire and findings in this performance results test conducted by jewelry-making experts. Discover why this metal offer a tremendous value and amazing workability.
Cutting Glass with Glass-Cutting Tools
There are two styles of glass cutters: dry and oil-filled. This tutorial shows how to use both types, each with illustrated step-by-step instructions.
Setting up a Safe Kiln Firing Area and Firing Enamels with a Kiln
Firing enamel in a kiln might appear challenging, but fear notāthese step-by-step instructions empower you to confidently and safely craft brilliant, gleaming jewelry projects.
Ask the Experts Finishing a Silk Multi-Strand Necklace Q&A
Q: I have seen a necklace that I would love to make, but I need advice on the clasp at the back. The necklace was 10 strands of silk thread with pearls and crystals knotted about 1 to 1-1/2 inches apart. It looked like a crimp with a loop that finished it off, but I am unsure which one to order to complete the necklace, or even if this is the right way to go. Can you please advise? Thanks so much!
Ask the Experts Lanyard Stringing Material Q&A
Q: I have made and sold over 50 beaded lanyards since November. Now all of a sudden people are coming back because they have broken. I used Accu-FlexĀ® beading wire 7 strand 0.019 clear for stringing. Do you have any suggestions for something stronger? I have a large order coming up and really don't want to restring.
How to Create a Loop in Loop Chain
Craft delicate, intricate and exhilarating chain designs. These user-friendly instructions will guide you in creating your own custom links.
Ask the Experts Crimping Pliers Q&A
Q: Do I have to use crimping pliers when using crimp beads?
Tinning Copper Foil
Learn this "stained glass" technique that adds a silver rim to the edge of your glass, and is often referred to as tinning.
Ask the Experts Beading Needles Q&A
Q: What needle should I purchase that will go through both beads and fabric, in order to bead fabric?
Ask the Experts Polymer Clay Q&A
Q: I have just recently gotten into experimenting with polymer clays. I remember hearing or reading somewhere, before I got into clay, that there is a two-part mold-making material that is intended for clay use. I'd like to make some of my own molds. What are my options that will complement the nature and characteristics of the clay?
Ask the Experts Fine Silver and Silver Plate Q&A
Q: I made my first bracelets using silver-plated clasps (not from Fire Mountain Gems and Beads) and they discolored. I want to make good quality jewelry for gifts and don't want to waste money buying precious metal findings if they're not necessary, but I also don't want my pieces to tarnish easily. Can you guide me on when to use precious metal findings? What's the shelf life on silver-plate and gold-plate? I have asked others and researched online but am not getting a clear answer. Again, I might just have started with poor quality clasps and maybe both Fire Mountain's silver-plated and sterling will give me good results in all cases.