Have you always wanted to design your own jewelry? Now you can. Follow these 7 easy steps to get started.
Do you feel like you just can’t find a piece of jewelry that speaks to you in stores or online?
Would you like to flex your design muscles, and have always been curious about what it takes to design your own jewelry?
Do you need to create a unique piece for a special occasion — or for a special person?
If so, then you need to read this post.
In it, we’ll tell you everything you need to think about when you’re ready to start creating your own stunning pieces of jewelry.
1. Start With A Sketch
One of the best ways to get started when you’re ready to design your own jewelry?
Make a rough sketch of the kind of piece you’re hoping to create. Even if you’re not exactly the best artist in the world, creating a sketch will help you to get all of your ideas down on paper.
You can play around with color, band design, the kind of chain you’d like to use, and even the size and dimensions of the piece you’d like to create. You can also make notes in the margins about the materials you’d like to use.
If you’re completely stuck when it comes to getting inspiration?
Check out online jewelry stores, pieces from classic films, and the aisles of beading/craft stores.
You’ll be surprised just how many ideas you can come up with just by flipping through the pages of a magazine or book!
2. Think About Durability
Another crucial thing to keep in mind when you’re going to start to design your own jewelry?
It’s important to consider the overall durability of the metals you plan to use. Of course, your choice will also depend on whether the piece you’re creating is for everyday wear, or if you plan to take it out only for special occasions.
Platinum is an excellent choice if you’re allergic to most other kinds of metals, and it can certainly stand up to everyday wear and use. Gold is perfect if you’re interested in creating more of an intricate design, as it’s easy to work with.
However, because it’s softer?
It may not always be the right choice for a piece you want to wear everyday.
If affordability is key, go for sterling silver.
If you can’t get enough of trends? Then we love the look of the vintage-inspired hue of rose gold.
3. Consider Your Setting
Next up on the list of things you need to think about when you’re ready to design your own jewelry?
The type of setting you prefer to use.
Of course, you want to ensure that, more than anything else, the setting can safely and securely hold the stone. The last thing you want is to invest in an expensive stone, only to have it fall out a few days after you’ve completed your design!
Most jewelry uses what’s called a prong setting. It doesn’t overwhelm the stone, but the prongs surround it from all sides to ensure it’s kept safely in place. Especially if you’re just getting started, we recommend this setting option.
4. Select Your Colors
The great thing about making your own pieces of jewelry?
You can create something that perfectly matches the outfit that you plan to wear! There are stones — both precious and semi-precious — in every shade imaginable.
You can select multiple colors that compliment one another, or you can stick with a singular shade.
Of course, for the truly daring, you can make a fruit salad piece, and include a stone in every color of the rainbow!
5. Don’t Forget The Occasion
When you’re creating, don’t forget to make pieces that are right for the occasion you want to celebrate.
For example, this jewelry company has pieces that are perfect for every occasion, but are versatile enough to be worn with many different outfits and overall personal style choices.
When you’re designing your own pieces, follow their lead. Don’t exclusively design pieces that you would like — especially if you’re thinking of one day turning your passion for design into a business.
Instead, think about designing for women and men that have an aesthetic that’s different from your own.
Not only will this keep things interesting. It’s also a way to flex your design muscles!
6. Make It Personal
One of the most fun parts of making the decision to design your own jewelry?
You can engrave it with your own branding mark, your initials, or even write a special message on the inside of the band.
We especially love the idea of including your wedding date or anniversary on the inside of a ring that you give to a special someone. You can even use old stones from family pieces to make a meaningful piece!
Remember, your brand and manufacturer stamp is how people will recognize that the design is uniquely your own! Make sure that it’s small enough to fit on the inside of your pieces, but large enough to make a statement on its own.
Ready To Design Your Own Jewelry?
We hope that this post has helped you to better understand the things you need to consider when you’re ready to design your own jewelry.
Always remember to think about the occasion, the color scheme of the piece, and the durability and setting you desire. Sketching your ideas out is always a smart idea, and don’t forget to add a personal touch!
Looking for advice about not only how to design, but also how to wear, your favorite pieces?
Spend some time on our website and blog to access the latest trends, tips, and statements regarding all things DIY!