How to Finish the End of a String of Beads
While the most important part of doing bead work is undoubtedly the creative effort of choosing and coordinating beads, the practical considerations involved in finishing the ends of a completed bead string are sometimes neglected. Good securing measures on the end of a string of beads are important for both the appearance of a piece of jewelry and its structure and security. Make sure your beads look good and stay in place by taking the right steps to complete the string.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Leave plenty of extra length at the end of the bead string. Plan before you start beading so that your cord will extend at least 3 inches beyond the end of the finished bead string so that you can comfortably tie the knots you need.
-
2
Account for any especially large beading holes. If the beads you're using are so large that a knot tied in your cord won't secure them, adjust for this in one of two ways; finish the string of beads with a smaller, spacer bead, or remove the last large bead on the string and fill it with air-dry clay before poking a new, smaller hole through the clay, then letting it dry.
-
-
3
Tie one knot to secure the beads in place. Tie this knot as close to the end of the beading as possible to keep the beads from sliding around on the string and revealing the cord beneath. To get the positioning just right, form the knot loosely, then slide it into place as you tighten it.
-
4
Take special measures if the cord you're using is slippery and won't hold a knot. Some cord, such as waxed cord, dental floss, or nylon cord is so smooth that it can be hard to get knots to stay in place. If this is the case, try using tools such as needle-nose pliers to pull the knots tighter than you can get them with just your hands. With nylon cord (or any cord made of synthetic or plastic material), you can also secure a knot by partially melting it with the heat of a lit candle or stove burner. Go slowly to ensure that you don't burn through the cord.
-
5
Fasten the end of the string to a clasp. Thread the end of the string through the loop of a metal clasp, then position the clasp on the point of the string that you want to be the end of the necklace's length. Tie the end of the string to itself using two knots, one positioned against the metal of the clasp, and one positioned a little lower on the length of the cord.
-
1
References
- "Teach Yourself Visually Jewelry Making & Beading;" Chris Franchetti Michaels; 2007
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
