This week, the editorial and art staffs of Art Jewelry sat down for our monthly "New Proposals" meeting. This is the time set aside for evaluating all the new material that has been submitted to us — either for a proposed how-to project, a technical article, or Gallery. We refer to the process as "jurying," much like judges will do for a show or a competition.

By far, the greatest number of proposals come in for our Gallery — which isn't surprising at all. One of the most common observations among the staffers is, "It's nice work, but why did she/he have to use pre-bought findings?" Making your own ear wires or clasps or connections is relatively simple — and certainly it's within the skill set of the artists who make the complex and beautiful pieces that cross our desks for evaluation. It's a finishing touch that shows a level of artistry and attention that goes beyond just stringing on a set of earwires that come 10 to a bag. And yes, people do notice.

If you're looking for a how-to on making your own clasps, Art Jewelry Associate Editor Addie Kidd recently filmed a tutorial for Kalmbach's new Jewelry Classes on Demand series.The tutorial shows you how to make an S-hook clasp, two kinds of hook-and-eye clasps, a spiral hook clasp, and a toggle clasp — all using basic wireworking techniques.