Things to consider before you start

Educate yourself in the area of jewellery making that most interests you. Look for information on the Internet, in libraries and in bookstores

Get some hands-on experience in your chosen area of jewellery making. You can easily learn some techniques - such as bead stringing - from books alone. Other techniques, such as various forms of metal casting, are best learned from a qualified instructor.

Find out what materials or equipment you will need in order to successfully complete your jewellery projects. Will you need to buy a lot of special equipment? If so, do you have the space in your home or workshop to store equipment and materials?

Figure out what type of jewellery you want to make. Write down your ideas and draw sketches of your designs in a sketchbook. Look at jewellery in magazines. Go to craft shows to see handcrafted jewellery. Visit museums and get inspired by art and historic jewellery. Keep photos and magazine clippings in a file folder or scrapbook for future reference.

Designate an area of your home for work space. Jewellery making requires many supplies that will take up space. You also need an area to spread out and work on your jewellery projects. Find a comfortable, well-lit area of your home to design jewellery and store your supplies.