Maker Essentials 💅 (aka… what you actually need)
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Alright… let’s build your kit.
Whether you’re just starting out or tightening up your setup—this is your no fluff guide to what you actually need to create beautiful, sellable pieces.
🧰 The Basics (don’t skip these)
Let’s start with your tools:
✨ Lighter (for sealing cord ends—trust me, essential)
✨ Bead board (keeps your designs organized)
✨ Sharp scissors (clean cuts = clean finishes)
✨ Small pliers (for hardware and finishing touches)
✨ Loop turner (game changer for certain designs 👀)
These are your foundation.
Don’t overcomplicate it—but don’t skip it either.
🔗 Accessories = Opportunity
Now let’s talk about what you’re actually making:
Keychains
Pens
Clips
Having a variety of accessories opens up your options and lets you create for different customers and uses.
🧵 Cord Matters. A LOT.
I can’t stress this enough— Good cord is essential.
It affects durability.
It affects how your pieces sit.
It affects your overall finish.
This is not the place to cut corners.
🎨 Now the fun part… BEADS 👀
Here’s how I build a design:
👉 Start with focals that inspire you
👉 Add complementary solids
👉 And if you really want to rock it… PRINTS.
💙 Let’s talk prints for a second
I personally LOVE prints.
They’re fun.
They’re bold.
They bring so much personality into your designs.
And honestly?
They’re where I get a lot of my inspiration.
🧠 Have a vision
This is a big one.
Don’t just grab random items and hope they work together.
Because most of the time?
They won’t.
Instead:
✔️ Think about your colour palette
✔️ Think about your vibe
✔️ Think about your end product
When you start with intention, your designs instantly level up.
💬 And if you’re stuck…
Reach out.
Seriously.
I love helping with colour combos, product pairings, and bringing ideas to life.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own 💙
— Angie 💙
Bead lover, print enthusiast, and your unofficial design hype girl 😏
💬 Next up on The Bead Buzz:
Getting real about shipping and the reality of lettermail