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What's Happening with Swarovski Crystals in 2021?

Rumors have abounded in the beading and jewelry making community ever since Swarvoski has announced a restructuring of their company in 2020. Allie from PotomacBeads talks about what this could mean and how to find alternatives to popular Swarovski crystal shapes in Better Beaders Episode 135. There is no need to worry as you'll rest assured that you will still have crystal options for your jewelry design projects!

Materials Used

Watch the Video Tutorial

What's Happening with Swarovski Crystals in 2021?
The Designer’s suggested colors and materials:
  • Swarovski crystals (mentioned)
  • Alternative crystals offered by Potomac Beads
  • Need Any Extra Materials?

    Need Any Extra Materials?

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    What's Happening with Swarovski Crystals in 2021?
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    Episode Transcript

    Introduction

    Swarovski crystals have been a beloved staple in the jewelry-making world for decades, known for their unparalleled sparkle and quality. However, recent changes in Swarovski's business model have left many beaders wondering what the future holds for these treasured components. In this article, we'll explore the latest updates on Swarovski crystals based on insights from a recent Better Beader episode by Potomac Beads.

    The Changing Landscape of Swarovski Crystals

    • Swarovski has made significant changes to their business strategy, moving away from the wholesale market and focusing on their own retail channels
    • This shift has made it more challenging for small businesses and independent designers to access Swarovski crystals
    • Potomac Beads, a major supplier of Swarovski crystals, has been navigating these changes to ensure continued access for their customers

    What This Means for Beaders

    • While Swarovski crystals may become less readily available through wholesale channels, beaders can still find them through select retailers like Potomac Beads
    • It's important to plan ahead and stock up on favorite Swarovski colors and sizes, as availability may fluctuate in the future
    • Beaders may want to explore alternative high-quality crystal brands, such as Preciosa or Matubo, to supplement their designs

    Potomac Beads' Commitment to Beaders

    • Potomac Beads is working diligently to maintain a steady supply of Swarovski crystals for their customers
    • They are committed to transparent communication about any changes or updates in Swarovski availability
    • Potomac Beads offers a wide range of Swarovski colors, sizes, and shapes, as well as helpful resources and tutorials for incorporating them into jewelry designs

    Embracing Creativity and Adaptability

    While the changes in Swarovski's business model may present some challenges, it also offers an opportunity for beaders to embrace their creativity and adaptability. By exploring new crystal brands, experimenting with different color palettes, and focusing on innovative designs, beaders can continue to create stunning jewelry pieces that showcase their unique style and skills.

    Conclusion

    The world of Swarovski crystals may be evolving, but the passion and ingenuity of the beading community remain as strong as ever. By staying informed, planning ahead, and embracing new possibilities, beaders can navigate these changes and continue to create beautiful, sparkling designs that inspire and delight.

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    Item Description

    Rumors have abounded in the beading and jewelry making community ever since Swarvoski has announced a restructuring of their company in 2020. Allie from PotomacBeads talks about what this could mean and how to find alternatives to popular Swarovski crystal shapes in Better Beaders Episode 135. There is no need to worry as you'll rest assured that you will still have crystal options for your jewelry design projects!

    Designer's Material List

    The Designer’s suggested colors and materials:
  • Swarovski crystals (mentioned)
  • Alternative crystals offered by Potomac Beads
  • Project Steps

    Introduction to Swarovski Crystal Changes: Begin by discussing the widespread curiosity and speculation within the beading and jewelry-making community regarding Swarovski's restructuring announcement in 2020. Emphasize the historical expansion of Swarovski from a leaded glass crystal company to a diverse global entity. Swarovski's Restructuring: Detail Swarovski's announcement in August 2020 about reorganizing the company and the impact this may have on the availability of Swarovski products, particularly those related to bead and jewelry crafting. Impact on Beaders: Explain how Swarovski's focus on high-end products might lead to a decrease in the availability of Swarovski elements, beads, and colors for DIY jewelry-makers. PotomacBeads' Response: Share how PotomacBeads has prepared for these changes by developing its own line of crystals, thus ensuring a consistent supply of diverse and unique crystal shapes and sizes for crafters. Call for Community Input: Encourage viewers to share their favorite crystal shapes, sizes, and colors to ensure these preferences are considered in PotomacBeads' future offerings. PotomacBeads' Commitment: Reiterate PotomacBeads' dedication to expanding their crystal selection based on community feedback to inspire and enable crafters to continue creating beautiful jewelry. Engagement Invitation: Invite viewers to comment with their thoughts on alternative beads, shapes, and stones, as well as to visit PotomacBeads.com and PotomacBeads.edu for more information on available crystal alternatives. Closing Thoughts: Conclude by wishing Swarovski luck in their reorganization efforts, expressing hope for the return of Swarovski products to the market, and reassuring viewers of PotomacBeads' ongoing commitment to providing a wide selection of crystals for all jewelry-making needs. Throughout these instructions, emphasize the artistic nature of beading and jewelry-making, encouraging viewers to explore their creativity with the variety of crystals and alternatives offered by PotomacBeads.