How do I Crimp With a Sevenstrand Uncoated Crimping Tool?
Stringing wire for making jewelry is available in different thicknesses. The Sevenstrand wire is the thinnest wire to accommodate beads with a small diameter for dainty jewelry. Bracelets with a clasp need a crimping bead to hold them on the ends of the wire and hide the tail of the wire for a professional appearance. An uncoated crimping tool attaches the crimp bead to a double strand of wire to secure the clasp on the end.
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Instructions
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Thread the Sevenstrand wire through one crimp bead with one inch protruding from the bead.
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Thread the 1-inch end through a clasp and fold the wire so the 1-inch end lies next to the length of wire.
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3
Slide the crimp bead up the two wires next to the clasp.
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4
Place the outer jaw near the tip of the crimping tool on the crimping bead and squeeze the handles.
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Place the inner jaw near the handles of the crimping tool on the crimping bead and squeeze the handles firmly together.
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Turn the crimping tool 90-degrees, place the outer jaw on the crimp bead and squeeze to form the bead into a round circle.
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Slide the first decorative bead on the Sevenstrand wire and push it next to the crimp bead. Cut any excess loose wire that threads through the clasp and crimp bead off with wire cutters.
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Continue threading decorative beads on the wire until it is the required length for a necklace or bracelet.
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String a loop crimp on the end and crimp in the same manner with the crimping tool and the Sevenstrand wire. The loop crimp forms a ring on the opposite end of the clasp for joining the necklace or bracelet.
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Tips & Warnings
The outer jaws of a crimping tool produce an oval shape.
The inner jaws of a crimping tool produces a crescent shape and holds two wires side by side firmly.
Beading supplies are available online and at craft stores.
Use Sevenstrand wire for beads with a small interior diameter so they slide easily down the wire but are not hanging loose on the wire.
Do not let children play with a crimping tool. Kids can pinch their fingers in the jaws and cause damage to the skin.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit bracelet image by Magalice from Fotolia.com
