Setting Up Your Jewelry Making Work Space

Q. What area can be designated as a workspace? Probably the most important thing you need is a space where you can work and store your materials. An extra room in the house would be ideal, but you may not have that option.

Answer:

When I first started, I used the dining room table as my workspace. It wasn't ideal, but since there were only two of us, it worked until I outgrew the space and had to rethink everything.

Ask yourself: Where can you leave your supplies without worrying about them? How much room do you need? Can your workspace stay out in the open, or will you need to lock it away? These are important questions to answer based on your personal situation.

Even an extra closet can be transformed into a functional work area. A friend of mine lined hers with shelving and added a drop-down table with fold-out legs. Everything is within reach, neatly organized, and it can be closed or locked perfect for keeping little hands out if you have kids.

By thinking ahead, you can creatively use small spaces. A flat work surface is essential, along with some storage containers and easy access to electricity.

What do you have that can serve these purposes?

One of Dale's students stores her supplies in a dining room hutch and uses a fold-up TV tray as her workspace. She can move it around the house or even outside, allowing her to work while watching TV or enjoying a sunny day.

Another uses a large antique desk in her bedroom. Supplies are kept in drawers and nooks, and she can close it all up when finished. This keeps her area organized, clean, and out of the way. Her business has grown so much that she's now asking her husband to build her a studio!

Dale started in her back kitchen using a warped fiberglass table salvaged after Hurricane Hugo. Her storage was simple plastic containers, prescription bottles, and hardware organizers. Her faceting machine even shared the table. This humble setup is where she began her unexpected teaching career.

Q. What are the basics I am going to need?

Answer:

1. Space & Work Surface:
Start with a workspace about 6 to 8 feet long. Having a blank wall nearby is ideal. If you don't have a desk, consider using an old wooden door (hardware removed) placed over two half-size file cabinets for storage underneath. You can find affordable fold-out tables at office supply stores or wholesale clubs. Don't hesitate to ask family or friends if they have something you can use to get started.

2. Chair:
A comfortable chair is essential. One with rollers is a plus since you'll spend a lot of time sitting. Check used office furniture stores, flea markets, Goodwill, or Craigslist for good deals. Take your time trying out chairs to find the most comfortable one.

3. Flooring:
If you have carpet, consider a rubber mat under your workspace. This protects your feet and pets from loose wire pieces and cushions gemstones or cameos if dropped. Many of us work barefoot, and a mat helps prevent injuries or damage from dropped items.

4. Lighting:
Good lighting is a must! Natural light is great but not always reliable. Overhead fluorescent lights work if they don't cast shadows on your work. Two adjustable arm lamps clamped to either side of your table provide excellent illumination. I prefer halogen lamps-they stay cool to the touch and mimic daylight well. Some halogen lamps include magnifiers, which can be helpful. Check office supply or department stores for affordable options instead of hobby stores, which tend to be pricier.