I began making jewelry several months ago, and it didn’t take long to figure out that the beads sold in specialty stores are outrageously priced. I visited a bead store in Frankenmuth Michigan, and although the huge selection of beads they had were highly unique and exceptionally beautiful, I really couldn’t afford them. I left the store disappointed and sad that I didn’t have unlimited funds to spend on my jewelry making hobby. I could have easily spent hundreds of dollars in that store, but I would have left with very little to show for it.
The beads sold in craft stores aren’t exactly cheap either. The first time I went shopping for beads at Michael’s I spent almost $40, and I really didn’t get that much for my money. I thought the cheaper bags of assorted glass beads were somewhat of a bargain at $2.99 – until I got home and examined my purchase. Some of the beads were broken and many were obviously seconds. Some of my bargain beads weren’t formed correctly, some were connected to others, and a few didn’t even have holes. In the long run, the few pretty beads I was able to use weren’t worth what I paid, and my bargain wasn’t really a bargain after all. I didn’t think I would be able to continue making bracelets since the supplies were overpriced almost everywhere I went.
I’ve always believed the old saying where there’s a will, there’s a way, and since I first began making bracelets, I’ve looked for a number of cheap bead sources. Most of the beads I buy these days are very cheap in price but not at all cheap in quality. I’ve found that it isn’t necessary to buy beads from an overpriced specialty store or a craft store. You can find cheap supplies that are just as beautiful and just as high in quality and craftsmanship from places you may have never considered.
The following places to find cheap beads will enable you to make a larger profit on the jewelry items you sell as well as enable you to give more of your creations to friends and relatives. Anyone who appreciates handmade jewelry as much as you do will love the pieces you design. Keep your eyes open and you’ll be amazed by what you find!
I love flea markets, and I’ve found many necklaces and bracelets that I’ve purchased just to restring. I’ve put together combinations of many different pieces to make something highly unique and very attractive. Best of all I’ve been able to get strings of beads and other jewelry pieces for far less than anything I’ve found in craft supply stores. I must admit, my finished pieces looked considerably better than the originals!
I also love garage sales, and it’s hard to pass one up, especially since any sale holds the potential for having reusable jewelry. I’ve found strings of freshwater pears, Swarovski crystal, polished stones, shells, and much, much more. The best thing about garage sales is you’re able to haggle. I got the pieces I wanted for just a few dollars. I bought a string of beautiful iridescent gems for just twenty-five cents!
Sale Racks
Believe it or not, it’s often cheaper to buy brand new beads already strung than beads that aren’t. Visit your local stores that offer items for a dollar or less and you’ll be amazed by what you find. Cheap necklaces you might think are ugly can be restrung with other beads and transformed into beautiful pieces that look exquisite and stylish. I found a cheap necklace with black and white beads at a local dollar store, and I paired them with the blue and purple iridescent glass beads I bought at a craft store. The bracelet I made with the cheap beads I found looks amazing.
Half-Price Beads
If you want to find cheap beads in craft stores, be on the lookout for half-price coupons offered by Michael’s. This well known craft retailer occasionally includes half-price coupons in their sale ads, and I once purchased a huge boxed collection of beads for an unheard of price. Otherwise, keep watching for cheap beads to make the jewelry you want. After you find amazing bargains like those I’ve found, you’ll never again be willing to pay full price!
