by Catherine.
I love the idea of DIY jewelry kits and I have been thinking about it for a while.
I am just stuck on one problem. I am trying to make a kit to make necklaces or bracelets that won’t require any tools.
Would you have any ideas on what kinds of clasps or end pieces to use so that people wouldn’t need any tools?
I was thinking including glue. Does that sound OK? Thank you.
Catherine
stretch bracelets would work well, for necklaces, think about maybe using cord for the stringing material – it can be tied to the clasp – or strung long and just tied off to slip over the head.
you should also look into macrame
Good ideas, Sarah! And Catherine, there are also a lot of friendship bracelet designs (with cords, beads, charms, etc.) that would work well for a jewelry kit without tools. Or possibly a kit involving elements to use with a pre-made chain that already has a clasp.
I do a lot of bead weaving & (usually) the only tools I need are needles & scissors. You could easily include a needle & thread (Fireline or whatever you prefer) in the kit. There are quite a few simple patterns that beginners can make, given enough time. Peyote stitch is a great way to get started with bead weaving, especially with size 8° beads. Or, basic kumihimo bracelets or necklaces. The kit could include the disk, ribbon/cord, end caps (or cones) that already have clasps attached, plus a small tube of glue. The only other tools needed are scissors, ruler/measuring tape, & a small baggie filled with a few coins (as a weight) & a binder clip to attach the weight to the braid. You could then sell refill kits (everything but the disk).
If this is for a class, you could also have optional items for sale: bead mats, additional threads, beads, etc.
I posted a sea glass and leather knotted bracelet tute here a while back and it didn’t take any tools. I used it as a class demo for our local library. You can find it here:
Blessing Bracelet.