Are there any alternatives to
crimping to attach a clasp?
by Katie Hacker
Sponsored by: Beadalon®
Crimping is just one of the many different ways to attach a clasp to the end of a jewelry design. The method you choose should be based on how you want the design to look and your own personal technique preference.
EZ-Crimp™ clasps feature a tiny coil that crimps onto the beading wire, making regular crimp tubes unnecessary. They're available in a variety of styles, such as toggle, S-hook and hook-and-eye. You can also use plain EZ-Crimp™ ends and then add your own clasp.
To use an EZ-Crimp™ pass the wire end inside the crimp end, and then use a EZ-Crimp™ pliers to squeeze the bars together. The coil inside flattens to securely hold the wire in place. Because the pliers have a rounded jaw, the entire coil is squeezed shut, which holds the wire firmly in place without damaging the wire.
You can also use a special finding called a “Scrimp” to attach a clasp. A Scrimp™ finding contains a miniature screw. Scrimp™ findings are a great way to finish a design because they are completely removable, which allows you to adjust the length or pattern after attaching the clasp.
Use a Scrimp™ finding in conjunction with a Wire Guardian™ finding for a secure finish. A Wire Guardian™ finding is a small hollow loop that fits over the end of beading wire where it attaches to a clasp. A Wire Guardian prevents abrasion and breakage. To use a Wire Guardian™, pass the beading with through the Scrimp™, Wire Guardian™ and clasp. Then pass the wire back through the Wire Guardian™ and Scrimp™. Turn the screw to secure the Scrimp™ finding.
The thinnest diameters of Beadalon wire are knot-able, which is great for beaders who are used to working with thread. Pass the thread end through a bead tip before knotting to protect and hide the knot. A bead tip also makes it easy to attach a clasp to the end of the design and gives the necklace a professional-looking finish.
Another way to avoid crimping is by using memory wire to create your jewelry designs. Memory wire is tempered wire that "remembers" its shape and retains its coiled form. It's basically one-size-fits-all and comes in pre-formed necklace, bracelet and ring sizes. You don't have to use a clasp to connect the ends because they automatically stay in place on your neck, wrist or finger.
For more ideas and inspiration visit: www.katiehacker.com
|
