How to Use Crimping Beads on an Adjustable Bracelet

Whether you are making a bracelet for yourself or as a gift, make an adjustable bracelet to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably. Choose beads in sizes and colors that fit the bracelet style and then string them to make a bracelet. As you string the beads, use crimping beads on the adjustable bracelet to finish the ends of the bracelet and make them secure.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Stringing wire (.018 gauge)
• Wire cutters
• Trigger clasp (5 mm)
• Curb chain extender (2-inch length)
• 2 crimp beads
• Crimping pliers
• Beads

Instructions

1. Determine the length you want to make the bracelet, keeping in mind that you will be adding up to 2 inches to the bracelet with the extender. Add 4 inches to this length and cut the stringing wire to this measurement.

2. Place a crimp bead onto the stringing wire, keeping the crimp bead approximately 1 inch from one end of the wire. Pass the end of the wire through the loop on the trigger clasp and then back through the crimp bead. Pull the wire taut so the crimp bead is snug against the loop of the trigger clasp.

3. Position the crimping pliers over the crimp bead so the second slot on the pliers is around the crimp bead and squeeze tightly to flatten the crimp bead. Move the crimping pliers so the first slot on the pliers is around the flattened crimp bead and fold the flattened crimp bead in half to finish crimping the crimp bead. Cut off the excess tail of stringing wire flush with the crimped crimp bead.

4. String the beads onto the stringing wire in whatever arrangement you desire. Leave at least 2 inches of empty wire.

5. Place a crimp bead onto the stringing wire and push the crimp bead so it is snug against the beads. Pass the end of the wire through the chain on the end of the chain extender and then back through the crimp bead. Pull the wire taut so the crimp bead is snug against the chain extender and the beads.

6. Repeat Step 3 to crimp the second crimp bead.

7. Fasten the bracelet by opening the trigger clasp and attaching it to one of the chain links on the chain extender. Depending upon which chain link you use, the bracelet will be 2 inches larger or smaller.

References

• Fire Mountain Gems: How to Crimp a Crimp Bead