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SPOTLIGHT ON ... ARTICLE
March 2007

The Right Tool for the Right Job
Written by: Charlene Gary

My father was a great teacher. He taught me the difference between a Philips head and flat head screwdriver, inspired confidence that I could fix and make things, and founded in me a love of tools. While working he would often say, "always use the right tool for the right job." I put that saying into practice in my jewelry work all the time. I know when I first started in jewelry making, I thought I had to have every tool that was out there. One of each kind in every color. (I have been known to be a jewelry tool fiend.) Besides, what if I needed a specific tool, and I didn't have it? Then what would I do? I felt lost.

Through much trial and error, and expense, I have discovered the basic tools that I believe every jeweler and beader needs. As I've developed in my craft, I've learned which tools are a must-have, and through personal experience and preference, which ones I need and use most often.

It's best to start out small. Be modest with your tools and expense at first. If you're new to beading and jewelry making, don't go overboard until you are sure you like what you're doing. A generic brand of tool will suffice in the beginning.

Every beader/jeweler needs:

• A crimping tool
  
• Chain nose pliers
  
• Round nose pliers
  
• Flush cutters
  
• Needle nose pliers

• A crimping tool-a must have for finishing off your jewelry. Soft Flex company stocks 3 different kinds, but for starters, the regular crimping pliers will do. These are excellent tools for a safe and secure closing on your jewelry. Easy to follow instructions are enclosed.
• Chain nose pliers-These are great for holding onto jump rings, clasps, and the tiny ends of beading wire. Excellent tools for bending and shaping wire, for those interested in wire work.
• Round nose pliers-Another must if you are going to be working with wire. These are great for shaping or adjusting wire, and for forming loops at the end of ear wires. Also handy for making needed jump rings at the last minute.
• Flush cutters-Here I would recommend a more expensive brand. I have tried the generic kind, and I just do not get as clean a cut as I do with the name brand. A clean cut the first time alleviates the problem of extra wires sticking out unevenly and gives your jewelry a very polished look.
• Needle nose pliers-These are excellent for very intricate work. Long needle nose pliers, I find, are the best for holding onto, and picking up, some of the tiniest beads.

I find I use the next group of pliers almost as much as the aforementioned, but if you're just starting, you may not find them as necessary, and can wait a bit before buying.

• Flat nose pliers-I use these most when working with jump rings. I have more surface area to work with and can hold onto several things at one time.
• Nylon jaw pliers-I use these in conjunction with the flat nose pliers. Nylon jaw pliers cannot mar the surface you are working on, and the jaws are replaceable.
• Bent nose pliers-These are great for holding, gripping, and shaping; and at such an angle where you have a good view as to what you are working on.

Of course, I have other tools and pliers that I use, but these are constantly at my side while am working. As always, keep your tools in good working condition, and close at hand so you're not searching for them when you need them. Know exactly where they are. Convenience and accessibility are important. It's not fun being frustrated when you're trying to work, and making jewelry should be fun!

Having the right tool for the right job makes your job of making your jewelry much easier and a great experience. Think about what you want, but get exactly what you need, and you won't be sorry.

I've been a creative soul all my life. I've recently started looking at things sideways and found it to be a very unique point of view. It's helped me to try different things, and create new things I didn't think were possible. I enjoy working at my bench at home and showing my pieces at a local artists' shop. You can visit my blog at www.cleverminerva.blogspot.com