How to Use Crimp Beads to Attach a Clasp

Steps

1. 1. Size the Beaded Bracelet on a Bead Board Before Crimping

   String your beads onto a length of beading wire that is much longer than you need. Spare wire is easier to handle at the end.

   Tip: A spare crimp on the far end keeps the beads from sliding off while you work.

   

2. 2. Slide a Crimp Tube Onto the Beading Wire

   Snip off any kinked wire at the working end. Slide on one crimp tube.

   Tip: Tip the crimps into a shallow dish. They are small and roll away fast.

   

3. 3. Loop the Wire Through the Clasp and Back Through the Crimp

   Thread on one half of the clasp. Then bring the wire tail back down through the crimp tube so it forms a loop around the clasp.

   Tip: Push the crimp back a little if you over-tighten the loop.

   

4. 4. Squeeze the Crimp Tube in the Back Station of the Crimping Pliers

   Look at your crimping pliers. The station closest to the handle has a notch in it.

   Tip: Keep both wires side by side in the tube, not crossed over.

   

5. 5. Fold the Crimp Tube in the Front Station of the Crimping Pliers

   Turn the crimp so the groove faces up. Move it to the rounded station near the tip of the pliers.

   Tip: Do not rush this step. A slow squeeze gives a rounder fold.

   

6. 6. Hide the Wire Tail Inside the Bracelet Beads

   Trim the tail to about an inch. Slide a few beads down toward the crimp and feed the tail through them, so it disappears inside the strand.

   Tip: Leave a little more tail with small-holed beads. It is easier to thread.

   

7. 7. Add the Jump Ring and Pull the Loop Snug With Chain Nose Pliers

   Slide a second crimp tube and a closed jump ring onto the other end. Keep the bracelet curved as you work.

   Tip: A closed jump ring cannot open, so it is the safer choice.

   

8. 8. Crimp the Second End of the Beaded Bracelet

   Check for gaps. The beads should touch without the strand going rigid.

   Tip: Try it on one last time before you squeeze. After this, it is fixed.

   

9. 9. Trim the Wire Tail Close to the Bracelet Beads

   Snip the spare wire with flush cutters as close to the beads as you can. Check that the cut end sits inside a bead, not poking out between two.

   Tip: Hold the flat side of the cutters toward the beads for the closest cut.

   

10. 10. Close a Crimp Cover Over Each Crimp Bead

    Check inside the crimp cover first. Spare crimps like to hide in there.

    Tip: One hard squeeze dents the cover. Many small ones keep it round.