How to Use a Tri-Cord Beading Tool
Restringing a strand of pearls with a knot between each one seems like a difficult task to do. You can take it into a jeweler, but by using the Tri-Cord Knotter, you can restring your own pearls or gemstones like an expert. The tool can seem intimidating at first and it may take you several tries to get the knots in just the right places. However, once you get the hang of it, you will be making more beaded jewelry with knots between each stone than ever before.
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Instructions
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1
Cut a piece of thread that is four times the length you need. Thread this onto your wire beading needle. Match the two ends of the string and make a knot at that end. This will hold your beads in place as you string them on.
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2
String on two of your beads and add the clasp of your choice. Slide them down to your knot.
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3
Take your needle up through the bead that is closest to your clasp. Pull to bring the clasp firmly against the first bead. Leave an inch of thread between your first and second beads.
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4
Using the tail end of your string, tie an overhand knot. Make this knot with the end string and your working string. Pull tight so it is against the bead closest to the clasp. The working thread is the end where your needle is threaded.
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5
Take your working thread with the needle and pass it through the second bead. Slide this bead tight against the first knot.
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6
Tie an overhand knot with the tail thread and your working thread. Carefully maneuver your knot and slide it over the long tip end on your Tri-Cord Knotter tool. Continue to slide the knot all the way down until it rests against the base. Holding the Tri-Cord Knotter in one hand, place your thumb under the tab.
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Wrap your working thread over the V groove. Pull with your left hand until the knot is close against the bead.
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8
Hold the long thread firmly as you push your thumb upward against the tab. This will cause the knot to slide up and off the awl.
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9
String the rest of your beads onto your needle and slide them down the length of thread. Keep these beads about nine inches away from the ones that are knotted.
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10
Slide one bead so it is against the last knot you made. Repeat steps six through 10 until you are down to your last two beads.
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11
Thread the other loop of the clasp and bring your needle back through the last bead. Pull the thread taut. The beads will be snug against the clasp. Make a half-hitch knot between these last two beads. Pull the string tight but not so tight that the string breaks.
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12
Pass your working thread through the second to the last bead strung on your string.
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13
Cut the thread on each end. To make your end knots more secure, apply some glue to keep them from coming undone.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not pull on the cord too tightly, or it may fray or break. If that happens, you will have to start again.
If your thread begins to twist, dangle your strand in the air and allow the cord to untangle itself.
