How to…use Crimp Beads
April 1, 2010
Now that we know the difference between crimp beads and crimp tubes, let’s talk about how to actually use them. For most beginner beaders, crimp beads are definitely easier to use. In fact, some people after having tried both technique become a “crimp bead lover” because of their ease of use.
Supplies Needed: 1 spool of Flexible Beading Wire, 4 pieces of crimp beads, beads, clasp of your choice and chain-nose plier.
Step 1: FREE your beads from the temporary string and empty them onto a non-slippery mat. Unspool a piece of flexible beading wire and starting the fun of beading! I usually do not cut off a piece of wire since it’s much easier to add more beads on if you want a longer necklace. Of course, plan out your design on a beading board before you start stringing.
Step 2: String, string, string…until you are satisfied with the length. Remember to keep checking on your design pattern as you are stringing. There’s nothing more unhappy than having to string back on that one bead you missed the first time :P
Step 3: String 2 crimp beads onto the wire.
Step 4: String on one end of your clasp. If using a toggle, it’s easier to start with the bar end than the ring end.
Step 5: Form a loop with the wire by bringing it back into the 2 crimp beads and at least, 1-2 stone beads. The reason why we put the wire back into the last couple of beads is to create a professional finish and to prevent the wire from scratching your clothing or skin.
Step 6: With the loop facing up, flatten BOTH crimps with a chain-nose plier FIRMLY but NOT too hard (remember how little the crimp beads are!!).
Step 7: Pull on the clasp to test if you have flattened the crimp beads well enough. The crimp beads should look like flat little rectangles. If the clasp doesn’t move, then you have successfully crimped your wire!! If not, it’ll be better to redo your crimps (meaning to take out these ones and redo Steps 3-6). Repeat the same for the other end.
