Things You'll Need:
- Decorations according to chosen theme 1.25 oz. paper nut cups Assorted beads Assorted findings: clasps, crimp beads Beading wire in different colors Jewelry making tools: round nose pliers, wire cutters, crimping pliers Paper tape measures Beading magazines and pictures of simple beaded jewelry for ideas Snacks and beverages Sheer organza bags
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Step 1
Prepare a guest list four weeks ahead of the party. Decide where (inside or outside the house) the party will take place. Space solutions include kitchen, dining room or coffee tables. If the weather is favorable, have it outside on the patio. Alternately, prepare a wooden or marble floor with pillows for guests to sit. Take into account the size of the area to be used for the jewelry making. Each guest's space should be the dimensions of an individual place setting.
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Step 2
Decide the length of the party by the age of the guests and the selected projects' intricacy. Allow time for socializing and eating. Next, choose a color theme. If this is a birthday party, purchase balloons, streamers, table covering, tableware and napkins in the choice color theme.
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Step 3
Choose invitations with a bead or jewelry theme. Inform guests that it is a bead-jewelry making party. Write who the party is for, place, time and RSVP with contact name and number. If you plan on charging guests for supplies, state this near the bottom. Base cost on the number of attending guests. Regulate price according to cost of extra supplies or tools, selected beads and findings. Additionally, let each guest know that she can bring her own beads and tools.
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Step 4
Keep beading projects simple. Suggested projects include beaded Bedrock bracelets, Olive Grove necklaces and earrings. Download tutorials from sites such as Art Jewelry Magazine (see Resources). Plan projects according to set time. Pick up beginner beading magazines such as Bead and Button or Bead Style. Collect pictures from catalogs such as Sundance with basic beading designs, which will generate ideas for guests.
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Step 5
Purchase a variety of beads, charms and findings according to the age of the guests. For young girls, consider large bags of plastic pony beads or chunky, wooden beads. They are usually sold in craft stores in bags of 1,000 and are easier to string. For older girls to adults, select different shaped beads and materials. Look for glass, wood, crystal, metal, gemstone or clay. Pick up charms for each guest to personalize her project.
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Step 6
Select different clasps and metals such as lobster, barrel and toggle, silver, pewter and gold. Gather crimp beads, head pins and beading wire in the same metals. Choose ear wires or level backs in the same metals. In a party supply store or online purchase 1.25 oz. paper nut cups to store beads for the guests.
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Step 7
Devise a menu. Provide foods that will not be greasy or cheesy. Serve fresh cut fruit, vegetable tray, finger sandwiches, mini quiches, trail mix and pretzels. Have napkins nearby. Make sure to purchase beverages as well. If it is a birthday party, have a separate area set up for cake and ice cream.
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Step 8
Before the day of the party, prepare the food and set up workstations for each guest. Drape a table cover. Lay a felt mat or beading tray at each space. In front, fill nut cups with beads and findings. Provide project instructions. Place beading wire and tools within reach of several guests. Have an organza bag for each guest to bring her treasures home. At table corners, pile magazines and clipped pictures of beaded jewelry for inspiration.
