I'm thinking about beginning bead crafting. What are the essential, must-have findings I need to get started?

Answer 1

Here's a list of the absolute bare minimum to get you started. There's a lot of other fun stuff out there, though, so don't stop here.
Tools:
--round nose pliers
--flat nose pliers (buy both of these pliers at a craft store--make sure they have smooth jaws)
--scissors
--wire cutters (and don't buy the cheap ones at the craft store--spend the dough and get them at a hardware store, they'll cut better)
--beading needles (the ones in the beading section of where you're at, not in the embroidery section--you want 'em as narrow as possible)
--optional but highly recommended: jewelry design board
Other stuff you'll need:
--beads (obviously). The kind you'll need depends on what you want to make
--stuff to string on. Take your pick--nylon thread, waxed linen, silk, embroidery floss, wire, the sky's the limit.
--if you're making jewelry, you'll want clasps, knot covers, and earring hooks. The style you get is personal preference.

Have fun with your new hobby!

Answer 2

I went to ben franklin and bought two beginners books, and a bead tray which included the tools you'll need to make jewelery. I haven't tried it yet, though. If you go to
http://hgtv.com/hgtv/shows_cds/ you'll find some information there. Put jewelry making in her search box.

Answer 3

There are how to demonstrations on
http://myspace.com
just look up beading.
It even shows how to make them.