More for Less

So, here's the conundrum of the novice beader... how to produce something unique and still keep the costs down? There are some really interesting patterns out there for elaborate woven bracelets, but the amount of time that goes into producing them means I'd have to mark up more for labor because that takes away from the time it takes to produce more of the simpler stuff. That is, if I pick this up as a money making venture. At any rate, purchasing beads, charms, and findings (clasps, ear wires, etc.) in bulk is significantly cheaper than buying items per piece in a local bead shop. Of course, the disadvantage is that you'd better come up with something people like. :) But that's part of the fun in creating!

For under $10, you can make foil lined glass bead coiled bracelets such as these:
(To make these out of crystal beads would essentially quadruple the price.)

These have "inspirational" pewter components with two strands of beads... these three are made of colored glass alternating with freshwater pearls and sterling silver seed beads.



A little more expensive option, freshwater pearls and sterling silver seed beads:


A little less expensive option, imitation pearls (glass):


I think I also solved some of the lighting problems I had last week. Still playing with the aperture on the camera. :)