What do I need to start a permanent jewellery business?
The permanent jewellery trend, originally started in the US, has reached our shores and it looks like it isn't going away anytime soon. Starting your own permanent jewellery business is a great way to start earning extra money or add to an existing business - many of our PJ customers already own beauty salons, tattoo shops and jewellery shops and have added permanent jewellery to their list of services.
We thought it would be helpful to put together a list of everything you need to start your own permanent jewellery business.
What machine do i need?
In order to permanently weld chain you will need a micro-welder. There are a few options on the market and we have tested a few ourselves. By far our preferred machine is the Helix permanent jewellery welder and here's why; firstly it is a professional grade machine - by this we mean it has been engineered to handle a significant number of welds within the highest power parameters (you compromise a lot on longevity and power with lower grade machines). It's really easy to set up and is small enough to be easily portable (great if you're going to PJ parties) and doesn't take up much space on a table. Yes, it's not the cheapest machine on the market, but nor is it the most expensive, and we believe it is extremely good value for the quality of product. In addition, it comes with a 3 year warranty for added piece of mind.
Do I need an Argon supply?
Yes, you will also need an argon supply - this may seem scary, but don't worry, it's an inert gas and is needed to give you a clean weld. We do not supply argon but there are many online companies who do - you will need a tank or canister of argon and a regulator with a 1/4 inch BSP thread to 1/8 inch hose tail to fit the Helix machine.
What other items do i need to start welding?
- Scratch brush - included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- Protective safety welding glasses - included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- 1mm electrodes - a pack of 5 is included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- Argon tubing - 1/4 inch outer diameter; 1/8 inch inner diameter - included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- Alligator style grounding clip - included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- Precision flat copper style grounding clip - included in the box if you are buying a Helix welder
- Grounded short-nose or needle-nose pliers - these are optional but can make holding small components a lot easier than the grounding clips
- Auto darkening screen with magnification - this is optional but our customers really enjoy this product. It is very light and compact and allows you to accurately see what you are welding under magnification, whilst protecting your eyes from flashes of light.
- polishing cloth - make sure your jewellery looks its best after welding
- leather protective patch - very useful to protect the skin when welding on a wrist or ankle
What jewellery making supplies do i need for permanent jewellery?
Chain
Firstly you will need to choose some loose chain that will be welded around a wrist or ankle. There are so many different choices here and we sell many different styles of loose chain. Most PJ artists will offer both a silver and gold option. We supply sterling silver, gold filled or solid gold chain - all are suitable for permanent jewellery. You can purchase 1 inch samples to see which styles you like. Consider a few delicate styles along with a couple of chunkier options.
Jump rings
In order to permanently join together the ends of the chain around a wrist or ankle you will use an open jump ring and weld it closed. There are two things you need to determine when choosing a jump ring for your chain: what size should it be and how thick should it be? In terms of size you should choose a jump ring that is roughly the same width as the chain you are using, so it looks like a seamless join. For example, if your chain link is 3mm wide then you should consider a 3mm or 4mm jump ring. In terms of thickness you need to determine what thickness of jump ring will fit into the end link of your chain. To make it easy for you we provide this information in our chain descriptions. For example, "a 22g (0.64mm) wire will pass through the link at the ends of the chain" means that any jump ring which is 22g (0.64mm) or thinner will be suitable to use with that chain.
Connectors and Charms
Part of the fun of permanent jewellery is to personalise the bracelet or anklet according to your customer's tastes. It's nice to have a selection of charms and connectors available to add some personality to the jewellery. You can then use the welder to attach these items securely to the chain. You'll want something fairly small (under 10mm) so it is proportionate to the chain you are using. Birthstone charms and connectors are very popular, as are initial charms and connectors. We have an extensive selection for you to choose from. Start with a small number then grow your range according to customer requirements.
And finally ...
We're always here to help you on your permanent jewellery journey, whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, we can advise on machines, tools and supplies. Contact one of our customer service specialists on live chat, drop us an email or give us a ring and we would be happy to assist.
