The fashion industry is probably the most personal. It speaks of a person’s chosen style, proclaiming their personality, beliefs and ideals. An individual’s fashion sense says a lot about them and their perceptions. The fashion industry is also personal because it allows individuals to create their style. DIY accessories are a rage globally, as more people get in on the bandwagon and start their brands. Several stores are selling clasps, findings, holders, etc., are also up and coming to meet this demand.
Making jewellery is an art; it is an expression of an artist. Anyone can try their hand at DIY accessories, with several tutorials available online. After mastering the basics, they can start trying out their designs. Before making jewellery and accessories, designers have to first familiarise themselves with the essential tools and materials.
CHECKLIST OF DIY ACCESSORIES MATERIALS
Clasps
Clasps are a necessary accessory to make necklaces, bracelets, anklets and chains of any kind. The clasps hold both ends of the accessory around the individual’s body. They should be easy to use and keep the accessory in place. There are several types of clasps, the primary classifications being,
Regular Clasps
These clasps are common on most accessories. It comes as a small hook and a small lever to manoeuvre it open and shut.
Hook Clasps
These clasps are regular S-shaped hooks that hook onto the opposite chain link, holding the accessory in place. They require minimal manoeuvring and are good choices for bracelets.
Stringing
The string/stringing is usually the practical cord holding the beads together. But today, several online designers are making the stringing the centrepiece of the jewellery. Decorative and embellished strings are available, allowing one to exercise their creativity to its fullest extent. Strings also come in metallic colours, neon colours, radium (glow in the dark), and numerous other variations.
Findings
A finding is a small decorative piece holding beads together and can also be used to space beads. Several types of them exist, but they all fulfil the same purpose. The most common finding is a small metallic flower-shaped disc at each end of the bead in a necklace or bracelet. They can also be longer and tubular to separate beads on a string. They usually come in metallic colours to mimic jewel fitters or holders found in diamond jewellery.
Beads
Beads come in an infinite variety of designs. Designers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to bead designs that are available on the market. Ranging from microbeads to big wooden African beads, there is a range of sizes, shapes, patterns, colours and designs. People can envision a design and find a bead that matches their expectation quite effortlessly. When it comes to beadwork, colour and space are critical. Colour theory and other associate principles can help a designer express their creativity to the fullest extent.
The pendant or Earring Fitters
A statement ring, or stud, usually has a “crown jewel”; or a large precious stone-like jewel in the centre. This jewel has a clasp or holder called a fitter. Jewellery designers can also find precious and semi-precious stones online to include in their designs.
Charms and Stamp Blanks
The latest trend in DIY jewellery is stamped charms. Charms are small curios hanging onto an accessory, usually a bracelet or necklace. Today, stamped charms come as small circular discs with a design or symbol engraved on them.
A minimalist wallet is made to fit comfortably into the front pocket of a shirt or a pair of pants without interfering with the flow of your outfit.
The DIY accessory world is booming, with social media avenues opening up to promote them. More and more designers turn to online stores selling clasps, fitters and findings to realise their entrepreneurial dream.
