How to Crimp a Crimp Bead

There are a few things all jewelry makers should know. One of those is crimping. Of course, till someone teaches you, how will you know. Now you can learn to crimp a crimp bead or tube quickly and easily.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crimp Pliers
• Crimp beads or tubes
• Nylon coated beading wire
• A Clasp

1. You will need to prepare to crimp. You will want to do this by starting a project. Cut the length of nylon coated beading wire that you need. Fold it over and add your clasp. Then slide a crimp bead or tube onto both wires and press it tight against the clasp.

2. 
    
   Image of crimp pliers. The first notch is the one closest to handle.

   Taking your crimp pliers you will want to place the bead in the first notch (this is the one closest to the handle and shaped like a crescent moon). Squash your bead by squeezing the handle.

3. 
    

   Now you will notice that your bead has been flatten with a dimple on one side. You will need to turn this bead on its side so the dimple faces outward and place it in the second notch (the one closest the tip and shaped like a flattened oval). This time you will actually fold your bead onto itself as you crush it by squeezing the handle.

4. You will want to finish by placing the crimp bead into the flat portion of the tip and tightening it gently. Don't squeeze real hard or you will break the bead.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time to separate your wires first for a more secure crimp.
• Add a dot of glue for extra durability. I recommend using Bead Fix which dries strong, fast, and doesn't discolor the beads.
• If you squeeze your bead too hard you may break it. This is sometimes hard to get off the wire and may force you to start all over, something that is real sad if you were finishing up the project. Be gentle and careful.

[sherryeam]

on 2/12/2009 I recently started / learned to use crimp beads. Very nice explaination of how it's done.

[aidenofthetower]

on 8/22/2008 I like the look of the crimp beads or tubes and don't use crimp covers very often. I haven't ever heard of Twisted Tornado Crimp Beads, but then again I haven't heard of a lot of things!

[Beadbug]

on 8/19/2008 Nicely done! Do you ever use a crimp bead cover? Have you ever heard of Twisted Tornado Crimps Beads?
They are awsome! You can see them at www.Via Murano.com just thought I'd share By for now, Beadbug

[acole]

on 6/9/2008 Good article. Thanks for the tips!