LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training Review [My Experience]

I first became interested in permanent jewelry after seeing a fellow mom running a small pop up at a local fair. Watching the process sparked my curiosity, and I began looking into what it would take to offer permanent jewelry myself. Like many people exploring the industry, I initially assumed that formal training would be part of the path.

During that research, I came across several online training programs that are frequently mentioned in the permanent jewelry space, including LINKED. So I decided to share an overview of the LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training program, including what the course covers, how the training is structured, and what my experience was like after purchasing and completing it.

The goal of my review is to help you better understand how the program is positioned and decide if it aligns with your goals.

LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training Summary

LINKED offers both online and in person training focused on the fundamentals of permanent jewelry. The program introduces students to pulse arc welding, the tools used in the process, and basic business considerations for offering permanent jewelry services. Their main training packages also include a welder, positioning the program as a bundled option for those who want both instruction and equipment at the same time.

In my own experience, I chose one of the lower priced packages when I first entered the industry. That option included a basic welder that is commonly sold online under several different brand names. The lower upfront price initially seemed appealing, though the machine did not hold up long term and eventually needed to be replaced. Like many tools used in this industry, equipment quality and durability can vary depending on the model selected.

Pros

• Online and in-person formats are available
• Payment plans are offered
• Students receive access to a private Facebook group
• Lifetime access to course materials
• Self-paced structure

Cons (My Opinions)

• High cost relative to the depth of material provided. The training itself is organized and easy to follow, though some students may find that certain topics benefit from additional outside research or supporting resources as they continue building their skills.
• Starter kits may not meet every artist’s long term preferences. The included tools, chain, and charms are designed to help beginners start quickly, though many artists, like myself, eventually replace or upgrade certain items as they refine their style or improve their setup.
• Entry level welder options often have lower durability and are not designed specifically for the permanent jewelry industry. Many of these machines were originally designed for the dental industry rather than for permanent jewelry. While they can be adapted for jewelry use, they are not always optimized for the delicate chains typically used in permanent jewelry, which can lead to less consistent performance and durability over time.

Related: Best All-Inclusive Permanent Jewelry Kits

LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training Reviews

LINKED is frequently mentioned in the permanent jewelry space in both a positive and negative light. However, reviews with fewer than three stars that are posted directly on the company’s site are routinely removed, which limits the visibility of negative feedback.

The program includes access to a private Facebook group intended for ongoing student support. The group seemed active while I was a member, but similar peer discussion, troubleshooting, and industry insights can also be found in free permanent jewelry communities. The value of a private group can also depend on your learning style, since some people benefit from a structured community tied directly to their training while others prefer to explore broader industry groups.

LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training Package Options

LINKED offers several package tiers designed to appeal to different budgets.

Deluxe Machine (Pulse Arc Welder) Training Package

This is the package I personally chose when I was getting started. On paper, it was positioned as an all inclusive option that bundled training, welding components, and basic marketing materials to help new artists begin quickly. It included a basic pulse arc welder, which initially seemed like a convenient way to keep startup costs lower.

In my experience, the machine became the limiting factor almost immediately. The performance and reliability did not hold up as well as I had hoped, and within a relatively short period it began causing issues during use. At one point it finally failed while I was welding a bracelet for my sister and started delivering scary shocks during operation. It was also extremely bulky and heavy, which made it difficult to transport to events, and the overall appearance felt less polished than what many artists prefer to display at a customer facing setup.

The package also includes downloadable workbooks designed to support learning and help track progress throughout the course. Those materials can be useful from an educational standpoint. For me, however, the challenges with the equipment eventually led to additional upgrades sooner than I expected. Some beginners may still appreciate the lower entry cost of this type of bundle, while others may prefer to invest in higher quality equipment from the start.

The “Upgraded” Luxe Machine Training Package

After feedback about the original deluxe machine began circulating within the industry, LINKED introduced a version of the welder presented as an updated model. The change brought renewed attention to the package and generated additional interest around the training and equipment bundle.

From a practical standpoint, the most noticeable difference was the exterior design. The updated version featured a white finish instead of the original look. The overall size, structure, and general form of the machine appeared largely the same as the earlier model.

For many artists, equipment considerations such as reliability, usability during live appointments, and long term durability tend to be important factors when selecting a welder. While visual updates can make a machine appear more modern, buyers often evaluate both appearance and performance when deciding what equipment best fits their needs.

Because my experience with the original machine had already influenced how I approached equipment choices, the updated design did not significantly change my personal assessment of the package overall. Others may weigh the bundled training and lower entry cost differently depending on their priorities when getting started.

The Upgrade You Really Need

Another option some artists consider is purchasing a welder directly from the manufacturer rather than through a bundled training package. Sunstone Engineering manufactures several welders commonly used in permanent jewelry, including the Zapp Plus® 2 and the Orion mPulse® 2.0. Each machine typically includes introductory training materials and detailed operating manuals to help new users understand setup and safe operation.

Buying directly from the manufacturer allows you to start with professional grade equipment while keeping training and equipment purchases separate. Some artists prefer this approach so they can choose how they want to learn while still having access to the manufacturer’s documentation and guidance when getting started.

For those who want more structured instruction, Sunstone also offers optional professional training upgrades that can be purchased alongside a Zapp Plus® 2. This allows artists to add additional training if it fits their learning style or business plans.

Starting with a reliable welder you plan to use long term can help reduce the need to replace equipment as your business grows. For many artists, this approach keeps startup costs focused on durable equipment and hands on practice while allowing flexibility in how and when additional training is pursued.

LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training Q&As

To gain confidence in your purchase of this course, check out these commonly asked questions about the course.

Who owns LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training?

LINKED was originally co-founded by Sarah Otto and Jake Randolph. Sarah has since exited the company and is no longer involved. Ownership now rests solely with Jake.

Is LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training worth it?

After purchasing and completing the course myself, I found that the value may depend on what you are hoping to get from a training program. The course provides a structured introduction to the process and business basics of permanent jewelry, which some beginners may find helpful when entering the industry.

At the same time, many artists also choose to learn through hands on practice, manufacturer resources, and independent business research. When considering a program like LINKED, it can be helpful to weigh the cost of the training against other startup priorities such as alternative training options, equipment, inventory, and real world experience to determine what approach makes the most sense for your situation.

How long does it take to complete LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training?

The core video training is approximately three hours long and self-paced. Completion requires watching the videos and submitting proof of three successful welds. Additional practice is still required before working with paying clients.

Do you need experience with welding to become a permanent jewelry artist?

No prior welding experience is required. That said, hands-on practice with quality equipment ultimately builds confidence and consistency, not simply completing a course.

Is LINKED the Right Training Option for You?

LINKED Permanent Jewelry Training is one of several paid training programs available in the industry. While it provides structured content and community access, it is not required to start or succeed in permanent jewelry.

Based on my experience, the overall value may depend on what you are hoping to gain from a training program. Some beginners appreciate having a structured course and bundled resources, while others prefer to invest more heavily in dependable equipment, hands on practice, and learning the business side through real events and customer experience.

For many new artists, it can be helpful to consider how training costs fit alongside other startup priorities such as equipment, inventory, pricing strategy, and event experience before deciding which approach makes the most sense.