The Winter 2017 issue is the last issue of Jewelry Stringing.*
It's been a tough few years for jewelry making magazines. So many have folded since I began submitting my original jewelry designs ten years ago: Bead Simple, Bead Trends, BeadStyle, and others. I'm sure it's at least part—if not entirely—due to the proliferation of free jewelry tutorials online. You can not only get tutorials with step-by-step photos, but also videos that help demystify the process. It's difficult to pack that same kind of information in print and make enough money to pay designers and staff. (If you're not in the magazine business, you may not realize how many people it takes to produce a great magazine including photographers, editors, marketing folks, graphic designers, production, advertising reps, and many others.)
I was first published in Jewelry Stringing (back when it was known just as Stringing) in 2007. Not only did I end up submitting regularly, but I'm positive that my work in the magazine also helped pave the way for my book, Unexpected Findings: 50+ Clever Jewelry Designs Using Everyday Components. Stringing also gave me my first taste of technical editing. (I worked as a freelancer; I've never been on the staff of the magazine.) I really enjoy editing. I joke that I can skip the Sudoku puzzles on days that I'm editing; it gives my brain a workout!
Jewelry Stringing Winter 2017
I have two pairs of earrings in this issue. This first pair has some Bead Gallery druzy rounds, Swarovski crystals, and metal swirls from B'Sue Boutiques. Bead Gallery beads are the ones found in Michaels.
This second pair combines pearls and leather. The pearl links are by Bead Gallery.
I have a simple bracelet inside the magazine. I was surprised and delighted to see it featured on the table of contents page. I used several Bead Gallery beads (the fiber-wrapped beads, the animal print round, and the large brown wooden discs) along with some handmade porcelain beads by Suburban Girl Studio.
Finally, there's ad for my book in the magazine. It's a weird thing as an author to see how the marketing department views your book. It's not bad. It's kind of like seeing your kid pick out his or her own outfit. The California Poppy necklace is one of my favorites in the book.
Farewell, Jewelry Stringing! It's been amazing!
* While this is the last standalone issue, I'm told that there will be some stringing projects in future issues of Beadwork magazine, so look for those later this year. If you have complaints/comments about the move to cancel the magazine, your best bet is to contact the company Interweave / F+W Media. I'm not able to help with subscriptions or any questions about the magazine since I'm not an employee!