• Basic silversmithing can be inexpensive.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  Silversmiths mold, bend and shape silver wire and sheet into an infinite variety of shapes to create earrings, bracelets and other adornments. While advanced craftspeople sometimes invest in pricey tools, beginners who want to get started in this rewarding craft need not despair. Most of the basic tools you need are available from online jewelry making suppliers for about 10 dollars as of late 2010, and some can also be found at local craft and hardware stores.
  
  

Ball Pein Hammers

• Ball pein hammers are essential to silversmithing and can be found on the materials list for any introductory class. These hammers have flat and rounded heads to flatten and smooth silver wire and sheet into desired shapes. Things to look for in a good hammer are a smooth wooden handle and a securely fitted head. As of late 2010, Contenti, an online jewelry making supplier, sells ball pein hammers at just over $4 for the 2-ounce model, and just over $10 for a 4-ounce model.
  
  

Steel Bench Blocks

• Steel bench blocks provide a portable, hard surface for silversmiths as they add shape and texture to wire. Look for smooth, polished blocks that are at least 4 by 4 inches in size. You are most likely to find these blocks at a jewelry making supply store. Contenti offers them in five different sizes, ranging in price from just under $11 to $62.
  
  

Pliers and Wire Cutters

• As a silversmith, you will need a set of pliers for grasping wire and making loops and bends. Although you may eventually want to invest in quality versions of these tools sold separately, inexpensive starter sets that include rubber-handled round, flat and bent-nose pliers sell for as little as $8 at Joann Fabric and Craft Stores. Some pliers sets include a wire cutter; however, you may find this doesn't cut very well, and it is worthwhile to purchase hardware store quality cutters. Klein Tools' flush wire cutter retails for just over $9 at Home Depot.
  
  

Files

• You'll need a set of files to smooth off jagged edges, and to add patterns and texture and a professional finish to your pieces. A 10-piece file set that comes with a convenient canvas storage case retails for just about $10 at Home Depot. You can also purchase files separately for about $5 or $6 each.