As a high school student, it’s hard to find time for a job between schoolwork and outside activities. I run a small jewelry business on Instagram and Depop to bring in a little money for myself, and since it is something I like to do. It isn’t super time-consuming, so it is a perfect fit for a busy schedule. I started my page during the quarantine of 2020 when I was stuck at home and needed to find a hobby to fill up my time. Since then, I have improved in my jewelry-making skills and made a successful business. I sell my items to my friends, peers, and customers online for affordable prices and I love seeing people wearing the pieces I make for them.

Jewelry making itself has its benefits; for one, it is a stress-relieving activity. Personally, it helps me to have something to fidget with when I’m anxious, so bending wires and beading is a nice way to reduce my anxiety. Additionally, jewelry making is a great way to save money. Store-bought jewelry can be expensive, and by creating your own items, you can still have cute and trendy looks, possibly even nicer than the ones you see in store, all for a smaller price. You can use the materials to repair jewelry, which will rid you of the cost of replacements. These handmade pieces can also be given as gifts on special occasions! When you make your own jewelry, you can make your designs more unique and artistic, which can not only help you stand out when you wear them but as a seller too.

I make a variety of jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and rings. I also sell non-jewelry items too, like keychains and phone charms. I pull inspiration from Pinterest, current trends, and other jewelry shops I follow. I always make sure to ask customers for their input on what they would like to see on my page as well. Jewelry making is a useful hobby to have, and I’m glad that I have the ability to do it.

Although it may seem challenging, it is easy to get started with jewelry making. While it takes practice to make more complicated pieces, there are many types of jewelry that are simple to make. I began by watching youtube videos and reading tutorials online. If you’re interested in starting jewelry making, just take a trip to Michael’s! I get most of my supplies from there, as well as sites like Etsy. 

Some of my earrings have been showcased within this article!

Jewelry making might not seem like your type of fun, but take a chance at it! Grab some pliers and get to work. If you get good, it might even land you a job in the future!

Jewelry Instagram: @charsjewelery