help - starting own business in jewellery making

[dizzy55]

hey,

I too have tried every avenue in trying to get back to work after being a single parent on benefits. I too have a degree, and have discovered the best way is to create your own work. I now teach music part-time from home and am in the process of trying to start up my own business in jewellery design. Does anyone have any experience in this field?

I now have the capital to buy the equipment I need, I just dont know which suppliers to go with. There seem to be 100's on the web.
Need to buy pliers, chain, beads etc.

Also, is it a good idea to set up my own website for selling jewellery, or is it easier to sell on e-bay?

It will be fairly middle-market prices, though I will attempt to use really good materials, locally sourced where possible.
Mainly lapworking glass beads etc.

If anyone has any advice it would be much appreciated. As a single parent on benefits I am determined to change our lives around.

Thanks

[geordieminx]

There is a going back to work section, and also a crafts section.. might be better on there?

I have been put off making jewellry as necklaces etc have never been cheaper - primark/sainsburys/dorothy perkins etc, so people are loathed to pay higher prices for costume jewellry?

[bonnymiffy]

I've found a lovely website called "Folksy" where people sell their handmade crafts, jewellry included, I guess they must take a commission, but might be easier than creating your own website if you've not done that before. Best of luck!

[CuppaTeaJanice]

There's a website called Etsy too to sell jewellery. You'll need good photos though.

I've sold a couple of bits on ebay, but they don't fetch great prices. Ebay's good for buying different bits though.

You might be better off doing a few craft fairs where people can see your work and try it on. Then you can play up the 'local' spect which will get people interested and bring in repeat custom. You could also make things to order, for example making their old trinkets into a lovely new bracelet.

For basic supplies P.J.Minerals is good - I think the website is beads.co.uk. If you spend over £50 you get trade prices so it's cheaper. The Stone Corner is another good one.

[racmac]

Dont know much about it but also consider selling at school fete's, mother and toddler groups, any fundraising days really
Have you approached the princes trust - i think they give advice to young people about setting up business (not sure what the criteria is but worth a look)

good luck

[dizzy55]

Thanks guys. I will consider all of the suggestions

[mychildrenarebarmy]

This bead shop is a good one.