How to…use Crimp Tubes
April 4, 2010
The other method to finish beaded necklaces and bracelets is to use crimp tubes. The advantages of using crimp tubes, especially ones made of sterling silver, are that they are extremely strong and that you can use crimp covers over them for a more polished look. Although the idea of having to use a criming plier is frightening at first, once you understand the simple steps of using one, you’ll find it no harder than flattening crimp beads with a chain-nose plier.
Crimping Pliers come in 3 sizes: micro, standard and mighty. You’ll probably be using the standard-sized one the most, which works for 1x2mm, 2x2mm and 3x2mm crimp tubes, so it’s not necessary to get all three. Looking at your crimp plier, you will see two slots. You’ll be using the inner one first and then the outer one after.
Supplies Needed: 1 spool of Flexible Beading Wire, 2 pieces of crimp beads, 2 pieces of crimp covers, beads, clasp of your choice and crimping plier.
Basically Steps 1 & 2 will not differ from those listed in the How to…use Crimp Beads.
Step 3: String 1 crimp tube 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 crimp tube 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: Place your crimp tube in the First Slot of the crimping plier. Make sure that it fit perfectly or else it will not work!! If the slot seems too small or too big, then maybe you have the wrong size of crimping plier. Press down on the plier.
Step 7: Turn your folded crimp 90 degrees and place it in the second slot and press down.
Step 8: Technically, you are done at this stage! Do Step 9 if you want to add a Crimp Cover.
Step 9: Place a crimp cover over top of the finished crimp tube. Place this combination in the Second slot of the crimping plier and then press and rotate until the crimp cover is fully circular.
And you have it, a professionally finished piece!
