Chatting Beading & Wirework With Author & Tutor Sara Withers

We chat to beader and author, Sara Withers all about her jewellery making experience and take a look at her wonderful eye-catching designs! We are proud to stock Sara's popular book, 'The Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery Techniques' which covers an extensive range of wire work techniques - a great resource for both beginners and experienced jewellers. In this interview we hear all about Sara's experience of writing jewellery making books and teaching, gain her advice on finding your own style as well as how to get started in the world of beading and wirework.

Hi Sara, tell us how your love for beading started!

Many many years ago I worked for a company that sold loose Indian beads, I took over this part of their business and quickly realised that I should make jewellery from the beads as well as selling them by the kilo.

How would you describe your own jewellery style?

My own style is quite simple, I like bold designs, hopefully quite quirky. I like my jewellery to be more about day to day wear rather than very glamorous. Colour tends to feature a lot in the designs.

"I wanted to show people what techniques they could progress to once they had the basics..."

The Encyclopedia Of Wire Jewellery Techniques - Sara Withers

Shop Book

We stock your book, ‘The Encyclopedia Of Wire Jewellery Techniques’ – tell us more about this book and what people can expect from it

I was taught basic wire work in a one to one session with a tutor in the States. I wanted to recreate this experience by starting right from the beginning. Then I wanted to show people what techniques they could progress to once they had the basics.

With that in mind, I also wanted to open other avenues, so got Elise Mann contribute to the chain mail section and Xuella Arnold to give an introduction to silversmithing. I felt that having other people involved would widen the book.

Is the book suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced jewellers?

Yes, the book is definitely for different skill levels, but is more for beginners than very experienced jewellery makers.

Tell us about your other books and more on your experience of writing them

I think I have written about seven books and contributed to several others. There was a period when jewellery making in all of its forms was very ‘hot’ with publishers! I really enjoyed working on the books. It’s important to point out that I was working with book packagers, they initiate the books and then look for an author. In the setup that was relevant to me, the creative director and the commissioning editor were definitely in charge…then me!

I really enjoyed working with the photographers, also super important. It was a great relief when all of the photography became digital. The era of peering at little strips of photos with markers on them in order to write the text was challenging.

Another challenge was coming up with designs, that would feature the different techniques, that weren’t in my own style so that I created diversity. I also enjoyed helping to find the Gallery contributors, again to widen the ideas that the books presented.

"I don’t ever make designs that I would never consider wearing. I think that is a good start for people who are trying to find their own style..."

What advice would you give to those struggling to find their own style?

I don’t ever make designs that I would never consider wearing. I think that is a good start for people who are trying to find their own style. But I am very sympathetic to everyone who is starting now - there are so many wonderful designs around, it is hard to create a style of your own.

You have sold at craft fairs and festivals all over Britain, what’s your favourite thing about doing them?

I enjoy taking part in craft fairs and festivals because, as well as the financial aspect, I need the integration with people who are looking at my jewellery and trying it on. I often get really good design ideas while at an event. I have also seen an amazing amount of brilliant music by selling at a few festivals each year!

What’s your favourite thing about teaching?

Teaching can be very tricky, people can expect miracles and forget the reality that ‘practice does make perfect’ but it can also be extremely rewarding when someone is truly happy with their own results. I get real pleasure when a class member finds a hidden talent.

Teaching jewellery making has allowed you to travel around the world! Tell us more about this

I have taught in rather unorthodox places when I have travelled. I taught on a Greece island and was put outside, which was wonderful, except that it was September and getting really dark by the end of the sessions. When I started to teach for Voyages of Discovery, it was on a cruise to Iceland which incorporated the Eclipse - this often makes the ocean very rough, and it really did. That was challenging on every level. But the passengers were wonderful, they knew that we hadn’t even been on a cruise ship before, so they helped with everything and luckily I passed the test.

Do you prefer making or teaching?

I don’t like to teach a huge amount so that I stay fresh, so I do prefer making.

Tell us about your bead collection!

I have a huge amount of beads that I use for making and teaching, but I haven’t made a large personal collection. Once I started to go out to Tucson to the Bead and Mineral show I was so overwhelmed by all of the collectible beads that I didn’t indulge a lot. But I do have a Kiffa bead.

We love your magpie jewellery, tell us more about these designs

Thank you, I love making the Magpie jewellery. They started from one really crazy necklace that I made for my niece. I learnt that they needed to be scaled down to be a bit more wearable. They satisfy my love of working with colour.

Do you make your own beads? If so tell us more about the process!

The Magpie jewellery ties in with making beads. I make polymer clay beads for some of my designs and I also make a lot of buttons for the Magpie necklaces. I also make resin pieces for the Magpies with inset watch parts and chains.

Take A Peek Inside Sara's Popular Book, 'The Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery Techniques'

Tell us about your workspace and any top tips for organisation

My workspace is fairly chaotic, I’m afraid. The lockdowns were useful for doing some clearing and tidying, but it would be wrong of me to offer any advice other than to be absolutely sure that you work in good light.

What is your favourite wire technique and why?

Closed loops are the obvious 'most used' technique. But I always enjoy coils, so simple and with so much design potential.

"My top tips for starting with wire - practice with silver plated wire and be generous with the lengths that you cut..."

What are your top tips for those wanting to experiment with wirework and beading but not sure where to start?

My top tips for starting with wire - practice with silver plated wire and be generous with the lengths that you cut. It’s inexpensive and you will hurt your hands if you battle with short lengths of wire. Keep a record of the lengths that you cut, then you can repeat your design or remake it with sterling wire and you will know how much you need. 0.6 silver plate wire is a great one to start with.

What’s an underrated beading tool you love and why?

Tools are very personal - what I do suggest is having a mirror near you so that you can keep holding your designs again your body rather than viewing everything that you make flat on a work top.

How has your business adapted since the pandemic?

The pandemic has moved me into working with precious metal clay more as well as beads and wire. And I finally opened an Etsy shop (which desperately needs an update!) Sadly, I now think that the state of the economy is going to be much more relevant than the pandemic.

Why would you recommend learning wire jewellery techniques?

I would recommend learning to use wire as it adds so much to the scope of designs that can be made. It doesn’t need lots of equipment or chemicals, so you can still work on a kitchen table, if necessary. And I think it makes your work look more professional.

Any plans for more jewellery making books in the future?

Sadly no more books in the pipeline - but I have really enjoyed working on the ones that I have done. And I am really delighted that others like them too!

Follow Sara Withers

WEBSITE | ETSY

Check out Sara's jewellery making course and current availability with West Dean College.

Our book recommendation

The Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery Technique

Jewellery making wire

Wide range to suit your jewellery making needs

Gemstone beads

Over 300 types of semi precious gemstone beads

Jewellery making charms

Large range of beautiful charms for jewellery making

Also in this section:

What Our Customers Say...

Mihaela Ciubotaru

I am very happy with my products... it is wonderful to have a reliable source of materials and gems with a fast delivery and a lot of tips on how to use the tools we buy.

Claire Hall

Kernowcraft is my go to for all my gemstones! Their stones are the first ones I show when offering my clients stone choices and I can't recommend their customer service enough! This is a company that cares!

Lenna

Hi, just a quick email to thank you for my cross and chain - I love it. What a speedy service - ordered it yesterday and wearing it tonight. Thank you very much.

Vivienne Sadler

Always too many temptations, but a joy to look through. Thank you for such good service. I have to be very strict with myself when I visit your website!

Daniel Coe

The customer service I have received from you and the help has been second to none. If only all companies were so helpful and understanding that i am a complete newbie. The retail world would be a better place.

I added a special request for moonstones with strong blue/green flashes and received 3 briolettes which were exactly that - some of the prettiest moonstones I’ve seen. Thank you!

Lynn Carson

I bought the sand dollar charm to make a holiday bracelet. It’s really lovely, subtle and pretty detail. Perfect piece and exactly as described.

Catherine Warwick

Just received my order that I placed only yesterday. I wanted to say thank you! I am delighted with the choice of cabochon, setting and books. Now I have to read up on how to set it! FABULOUS SERVICE - Thank you!

Jenny Kirkwood

Love the service you get and appreciate the range of products on offer. I just used the alligator tape for the first time and found myself asking - where have you been all my life?

Catriona

Thank you for my recent order as I'm blown away by all the lovely pieces. I don't really know what to start work on first. Thank you for supplying top quality items on a easy to use website.

Lydia Farrow

Just to say that I have always had the best possible results for every order - however small and all your products are of excellent quality.

Jill Hammersely

I just wanted to say a massive thank you to the team, particularly the ladies that helped me yesterday. Delivery took less than 24hrs, that's amazing. The quality of both cabochons and settings are stunning.

Maggi Henman

I’ve just had my first order from you and I am so pleased with the fast delivery and the quality of the products. The satin cords and the findings really finished off my ceramic jewellery.

Denise Mountain Pike

I recently ordered a couple of replacement stones from you and I'd just like to say how happy I am with my purchase and very impressed with the friendly helpful service you gave. Thank you very much.

Jaquie

It can be difficult to order gemstones online - no such worries with Kernowcraft - you really do care about your products & clients and it shows.

Christine Wood

Just want to say a very big thank you for your quick delivery and excellent service. The stones I ordered arrived this morning, the quality and price are second to none. I was delighted with my purchase. Thank you so much.

Helen

Just wanted to say thank you for picking such beautiful stones for my order. I'm halfway through making a ring for my daughter and the rose cut rainbow moonstones are particularly yummy. Thank you!

Frank Wilson

I have grown as a jewellery maker over the last year or so due to the encouragement the team have given me - they are all experienced jewellery makers or keen crafters. They have helped to guide me through my inventory, offered helpful tips and advice on all manner of silver working.

Kim Thomson

I have been using Kernowcraft since 1997 and still regularly recommend them to all my students.

Helen Bowles

I felt compelled to write to you, as I'm so impressed with your quick service! I've been a Kernowcraft customer for years and have never had anything but reliable, efficient service from you.

Joel Martin

Great, easy to navigate website with wonderful clear photographs. I look forward to receiving my order... it's going to be like Christmas!

Gloria Williams

I just came across your online shop and my first reaction was wow! It has everything i need to carry on with my jewellery making. I've seen things that i have been looking for and couldn't find in so many other shops!

Claire

I just wanted to say a big thank you for the beautiful sapphires that arrived today. Hannah picked out just what I wanted and I’m over the moon with them.

Hayley Meredith

I just wanted to say thank you for the amazing service from Kernowcraft. I find your website easy to navigate, products good quality and the delivery is second to none!

Eve

The stones are excellent quality, and the special request I put in for dark citrines and paired malachites has been met perfectly. I am delighted with Kernowcraft, and will be back!

Frank Wilson

It is always a joy to deal with your Company and your hints and tips always help me to improve my skills and encourage my interests. Thank you for caring about us small enthusiastic silversmiths!

Marshal

Thank you to the lady who went to a great deal of trouble to find a very small opal that fitted a bezel cup. The work is now complete and looks very nice - my wife is delighted with the result.

Sarah Tiley

Whenever I feel unsure as to where to purchase any stones or jewellery requirements I always go back to what is familiar. Thank you Kernowcraft for being true to your customers.

Julia Schofield

I’ve used Kernowcraft as a supplier for findings and pearls since beginning my business 8 years ago, because I know I can absolutely rely on the quality I get. The service is pretty impeccable too.

Janice Scragg

Your website is easy to use, your products excellent, nice friendly service on the phone and delivery quick, excellent. Thank you and well done Kernowcraft. Gold star!

Dorota Todd

I just wanted to say how impressed I am with the quality of pearls in my recent order! Thank you so much for taking time and matching them into pairs, it's very appreciated. Thank you and I am definitely going to buy at your store in the future.

Deborah Roberts-Barter

I have sent a couple of email enquiries today, which have been really quickly answered. This customer service is what made me order with you straight away!

April Luescher

Beautiful quality and colours - I rarely buy semi-precious stones anywhere else these days. Very helpful, superb service, speedy delivery. What more could anyone want?

Lauren Jodie Piercy

Beautiful gemstones and a lot of choice. Running competitions and being interactive as well really sets them apart. Keep up the interesting content.

George Inglis

Great looking website, one of the best I've seen and used. Good search function, good range of products, good prices and great advice for jewellery makers of all abilities. All-in-all a great site and one I'll use again and again.

Rhiannon Piper

The opal I received is absolutely amazing and just perfect. Its such a beautiful stone and I tried it with my wedding dress yesterday and its just set it off so well.