The beginning basic components of most earrings are the part that hooks into the ear and a headpin, which is used to string your beads on.  Many refer these pieces as “findings”.

 

You can easily locate earring findings that are already manufactured.  They are often sold at your local craft stores and of course online.  The come in a variety of metals ranging from silver and gold plated to fine silver and gold.  It is a matter of preference and affordability.

 

You may also decide to make your own findings for your handcrafted earrings.  Earrings are easy to make on your own.  You may find yourself in a crunch and needing to make your own finds due to time constraints.  If you learn how to do this it could keep you from having to make a special trip to the store or place a special online order and delay the completion of your piece. 

 

You can cut the cost of your supplies by buying bulk precious metal wire.  It can end up being less costly to purchase it in this manner.  This is a great way to keep your costs down and not have to pass extra fees on to your customers.  This is an important factor in making a larger profit, for those of us in business.

 

The jewelry business is very competitive.  To stay alive in this field you must produce quality work.  Creating unique pieces is another good way to attract customers to your product.  This also may allow you to charge more for your pieces, since your buyer knows they are not going to be able to find it at the next stop!

 

Learning how to create your own earring findings will also allow your creative side to emerge.  You will have the knowledge and flexibility will producing your designs. This is also a great way to achieve a since of accomplishment.

 

There are a variety of wire choices on the market.  Not only do you have to choose the type of metal, but the gauge that works best for your project.  It is popular today to even mix the metal types using different colors together and different gauges.  This adds more interest to your piece.  It is recommended to use 21 gauge half-hard and soft round

sterling wire.   The 21 gauge fits well in the hole of pierced earring wearers, while being able to support the additional pieces strung on the wire.  20 to 22-gauge wire is also a good type to use for earrings. 

 

So, I would suggest you start collecting your wire and preparing yourself to learn how to make wire earrings.  My next article will focus on a basic earring wire instruction.  Stay tuned for future articles.

 

Amy

 

www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com

614-530-0219