How to Size Toggle Clasps

A toggle clasp is an elegant way to connect jewelry.

A toggle clasp is a two-part clasp that is simple and elegant. One side of the clasp has a simple circle or loop. The other side of the clasp is a small cross piece. The cross piece is slipped through the circle on the other side of the jewelry item. The weight of the piece holds the two sides of the toggle tight, which prevents the clasp from coming undone. It is a simple matter to determine the best size of toggle clasp to use with different jewelry projects.

Things You'll Need

• Jewelry pliers
• Necklace or bracelet

Instructions

1. Inspect the size of the bracelet or necklace that needs the clasp. Beading Daily.com recommends using toggle clasps with necklaces and medium-weight bracelets. A toggle clasp requires the use of tension to keep the clasp closed. Lightweight jewelry will not be heavy enough to hold the toggle closed. Charm bracelets and chunky necklaces are ideal pieces to use with toggle clasps.

2. Determine the size clasp necessary. Use the size of the rest of the jewelry as a guide. The clasp should be about as large as the majority of the beads or items on the jewelry piece. The toggle clasp should be no larger than the largest jewelry piece on the item. The toggle clasp should never be smaller than the smallest piece of jewelry on the item. Try testing several different sizes of clasps to find which one looks best with that particular item.

3. Install the two pieces of the toggle clasp onto either side of the jewelry piece. Use jewelry pliers to attach the clasp to the item. Make sure to tighten all connections so that the toggle cannot slip off of the jewelry piece.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use magnetic toggle clasps for a stronger bond between the two toggle pieces. The problem with magnetic clasps is that they tend to grab onto other metal surfaces as well, such as metal chairs and tables, which can inadvertently cause the jewelry piece to unclasp when you pull away from the metal object. Magnetic clasps are not used with individuals who have pacemakers or other mechanical inserts inside their bodies.

References

• Land of Odds: Clasps and Closures
• Beading Daily: Choose the Right Bracelet Clasp