Typing in jewelry making tools in your search engine will also bring up a long list of suppliers. This is why it is good to physically go to the local craft shops and make sure you know the name of the tool you need. Two well known websites for tools are www.firemountaingems.com and www.shipwreckbeads.com
* BEADS:
Again, Fire Mountain Gems and Shipwreck are the strongest. Firemountain now has a wholesale deal where you can mix and match. For example, 1-4 items cost such and such amount. Another item says 1-9 items costs $amount. You can order 15 separate items and get the discount for ordering 15. It is a great way to increase your bead selection. Fire Mountain also has THE best customer service I have ever come across.
Shipwreck often has close out deals on certain beads so plan on spending a couple hours scrolling through their website. They also have a fantastic pewter findings section and charms.
Typing in Beads jewelry in your search engine will bring you probably over 10000 pages. A easier way is to pick up the BEAD & BUTTON catalog for specific websites for beads.
* Another place to find beads are at ANTIQUE SHOPS (do not tell them you are going to take the piece apart or they will not sell it to you!) and also at AUCTIONS. You don’t go to auctions? Well perhaps you know someone who does? Ask them to look out for beads for you and give them $10-20 to place a bid.
* Ask grandparents or other relatives if they have any glass beaded necklaces, bracelets, etc. that they are not wearing. You will be very surprised at the amount of jewelry that may come your way!