Want to save money on beading supplies? See this list of five simple ways to save on beads and other jewelry-making materials.
Bead-weaving is a fun hobby and it can actually save you money if you love wearing beaded jewelry. Instead of purchasing expensive pieces from a store. You get to create your own unique accessories and then, claim bragging rights for your accomplishments.
However, buying jewelry-making supplies can be pricey if you get out of control. Quite honestly, that’s not hard to do. When you get caught up in beading, those pretty bead colors and shapes just call your name.
But, there are ways to save money on beading supplies. Here’s a list of tips on how you can do just that.
This is Part 2 of a three-part series about how to save money on beading. Read Part 1 and Part 3.
How To Save Money On Beading Supplies
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1. Create a Shopping List
Anytime you have a new beading pattern and need to purchase beading materials, make a list. Include the exact quantities, types of beads and even colors.
Stick to this list while shopping because it will help you to stay on track and get just what you need. Otherwise, it’s very easy to get carried away and end up with all sorts of products you didn’t set out to buy.
Having color names and codes ensures you get exactly what you wanted. Too many times, I have watched customers try to match a color they already had at home and end up purchasing the wrong one. Then, they either had to return to the store to exchange it or buy the correct color later. Doing this, not only wastes time, but also money.
Knowing the quantity of beads required to complete a tutorial saves you from buying too much and spending more money than necessary. It also saves you from buying too little and running out in the middle of the project. Nothing is more irritating, especially if the color you need more of went out of stock before you could get your hands on it.
2. Purchase Good Quality Beading Supplies
Cheap beads and tools may seem like you’re getting a good deal but this is not always the case.
Low quality beads are usually broken or misshapen. If you’re trying to make your beadwork look professional, you’ll end up throwing away more beads than you use when you cull them.
Cheap tools are flimsy and may rust over time.
Save yourself the hassle, save your money and just get good quality beading materials. You’ll be glad you did.
3. Practice Using Cheap Supplies
There is only one occasion where I would recommend using cheap beads and findings. And that is, if you’re a beading beginner or just want to practice a new stitch. Then, you can use beads that are not the best quality.
You already know that the finished products are not going to look the absolute best so there’s no need to break out the sterling silver or Swarovski crystals.
4. Subscribe to Bead Store Email Lists
When you sign up for a bead shop’s email list, you’ll receive alerts any time there’s a sale or a great deal. This is a sure-fire way to save money on beading supplies.
But, beware! This can easily be a double-edged sword. If you’re not one to pass up a sale and often end up buying items you don’t need just because you’re receiving a discount, stay away from these emails unless you actually need things.
Also, stick to your beading shopping list. It really can be a life-saver.
5. Use Rakuten, formerly Ebates
I love using Rakuten to save money when shopping online. It’s a completely free service that gives you cashback on purchases you were making anyway.
Simply click on the link to the retailer you want to shop with through the Rakuten website or Chrome browser extension and shop away. It’s really easy. You’ll receive your rebate by check or via PayPal.
Take advantage of this service on websites like Etsy and Interweave to save money on beading patterns etc.
Create your own free Rakuten account, previously known as Ebates, here.
Hopefully, this list of five tips will help you to save money on beading supplies.
Remember, this is Part 2 of a three-part series. Make sure to read Part 1 and Part 3 if you haven’t already.
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