What metals now?

As the economy continues to be in a bit of a slump, many of us are still looking for ways to cut our costs without sacrificing taste and artistic merit. For several years now, I've been mixing copper, brass, and pewter into my designs...at first because I liked the look, and in addition now because they are more affordable.

I have a list of metal bead suppliers that has links to many fine companies, but I notice that most of them specialize in silver and gold. Vintaj is listed, a wholesaler of brass beads and findings, and also Green Girl Studios, which has pewter delights as well as silver.

Here are some additional sources of copper, pewter, and brass:

Rings & Things
HHH Enterprises
Auntie's Beads

And for metal clays, including the new BronzClay and CopprClay, don't forget about Rio Grande!

Jean Campbell, at Beading Daily, has provided a wonderful chart which gives you the low down on copper, brass, and pewter, including how to care for them.




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