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Creating on the Go

by Susan LeGuyader
Do ever take your work on the road or want to but don't know how to keep it organized and tidy? Over the years, I have perfected my traveling tool kit. I've worked on jewelry projects during road trips, plane trips, sitting by the lake or at a park, going to the beach, as well as basketball games, football games, school concerts and track meets. And then whenever I do an event, I take a tool kit with me for repairs or making new things.
Instructions
My preferred travel case is a two level Sterlite container that I've picked up at Target (Photo 1). It has sturdy clips to secure the top and bottom layers as well as the lid, which has a good handle. One of the things that I love most about this case is that it is just big enough. I can drop it in a tote bag and I'm ready to go.

Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
When selecting the items to go with your, think of what work you have in process or what you would like to do. Wire work is perfect for travel. I've made countless bracelets, earrings, and wire-wrapped links for chains on the go.

I start with a beading mat. It's going to keep everything from rolling around on a table or I can work directly out of the case.
From there, I start to layer. I keep the tools in the bottom section, as you can see, you can get everything you need. I take a small bench block, chasing hammer, chain nose pliers, and flat nose pliers, bent nose pliers, looping pliers, flush cutters and needle files. This will take care of all of my wire forming needs.
Pro Tip: You can tape a ruler to the lid, for easy and consistent measuring.
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
In the top section of the case, I reserve for the supplies. Any wire that I might need, I tossed in a plastic forming piece and then the beads. I try to have a definitive plan for making while I'm gone. It cuts down on the confusion of packing too many beads. I also have room to stop at any bead shops that I find and add to my stash.
Closed up and I'm ready to head out. I've done some of my best work sitting in someone else's house or at a stadium. Give it go!
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go
Susan LeGuyader's Creating on the Go - , General Education, , creating on the go

Materials

16 Gauge Round Half Hard Copper Wire
H11-16H
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $1.26
  • Gold Club Price: $0.94
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21 Gauge Round Half Hard .925 Sterling Silver Wire
H8-21H
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $2.82
  • Gold Club Price: $2.12
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Tools

Premium Wire Jewelry Tool Kit
Y4-1
  • Y4-1
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $99.97
  • Gold Club Price: $74.98
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): General Education

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