Have a ruler handy at all time. Measuring is the key to symmetrical pieces. It also insures that the pieces are the right length for fitting.

DON'T use your good wire cutters or pliers to cut or manipulate memory wire. You'll destroy them. Memory wire is some tough stuff and it will dent, knick and scratch your tools. Instead, purchase a pair of wire cutters and pliers from your favorite discount store. They're usually a dollar a piece.

Wire can be a more economical choice to string beads instead of head and eye pins. The gauge of the wire will determine how stuff your loops are. The higher the number (gauge), the thicker, and therefore stiffer, the wire is. I find this distinction especially important when making a necklace.

Wearing googles can keep you from going blind or sustaining a very painful eye injury. When clipped, heavy wires, pins and chain links can fly all over the place. Even small debris can potentially cause severe injury.

Having a mannequin or bust makes it easier to drape a neckace. You'll see how it falls and can make adjustments faster and more accurately.

Knowing common lengths for necklaces and bracelets lets you design and create for a wider audience. Because I'm very petite, the bracelets I started out making were too small for most people. Ironically, my painted bangles (some of my favorites pieces), fit everyone but me.

Trinkets, buttons, old earrings and metal washers all make great additions to necklaces and charm bracelets. Even earrings and pins. And better still, the majority of them are free! I have dozens of charms left over from old jewelry or that I've found. I also collect buttons, but I got over a hundred of them for less than three bucks at Walmart. They came in every color; some even came in shapes or had patterns. One thing was certain, they all had character.

Head pins and eye pins come in many different sizes and colors. Generally, I'll specify which color I'm using, but generally not the size. That's because I use whatever size I feel will work best for me. Experiment with the different sizes and see which is easier for you, more cost effective and which produces less waste.