I would use 22 gauge wire. It's strong enough without being too stiff.

I have used antique copper findings with Vintaj brass and/or plain brass. So you could try one of them with your copper.

They go quite well together, but you would have to compare it personally because there are many shades in the brass.

The tools that you will need will depend on what you wish to make; ie, if you think you will focus more on stringing beads or on working with wire. For an example of most of the major basic jewelry techniques in action and a look at the tools used for each, check out our All-In-One video in our Learning Center, which covers simple loops, wrapped loops, jump rings and crimps:

http://www.artbeads.com/all-in-one-video.html

To purchase basic tools, you can either get each tool individually or buy a tool set. We would recommend looking at the list of tool in the sets and comparing the price to what you would pay individually for the tools that you would use.

Basic tools:
http://www.artbeads.com/tools-and-supplies-tools.html
Tool sets:
http://www.artbeads.com/jewelry-tool-sets.html

You will want to choose a chain that has enough open space within the links for charms to dangle off of, such as a cable chain or a curb chain. A link size of 4-5mm, for example, will be large enough for the charm to dangle freely with room for movement.

Since Swarovski pearls are glass, and not actual pearls, you do not need to worry about knotting. Just use what you would normally use, and have fun!

I would say the 1/8 as it is a little larger to see what you are doing until you get the technique down.

If exposed to the air, 6 months, if not , indefinitely in an airtight plastic bag.

Swarovski crystal is by far the best crystal! Perhaps Crystal AB or white opal AB. (AB gives it a sparkly rainbow effect).

We would recommend using Swarovski Flatback Rhinestones to embellish your bridal shoes. Jewel Bond is an excellent glue to use for adhering Flatbacks to fabric. You can see an example of how to apply rhinestones to fabric in our picture tutorial here:

http://www.artbeads.com/howtoapflonf.html

We would recommend using a sturdy .019 jewelry wire to string your necklace. This medium sized wire will give you a little extra strength if you are concerned about breakage, but will provide flexibility. Jewelry wire with high numbers of strands - 49 strand wire, for instance - provides the most flexibility and flow. We would recommend checking out Zamba Pro's 49 Strand .019 Jewelry Wire. Since discovering this wire, we have been using it exclusively in our Learning Center designs due to its superior flexibility and kink resistance. You can view this wire via the following link:

http://www.artbeads.com/zp49-30f-019.html