How to Make a Beaded Clasp

Fasten your beaded jewelry by making a beaded loop clasp.

If you are created a piece of beaded jewelry with string or beading wire, you will need to add a clasp so that you can put it on and take it off. Instead of attaching a metal clasp such as a lobster clasp or a spring clasp, you can make one yourself out of beads that match the other beads in the piece of jewelry. A large bead or button is needed to slip through a loop made of small "seed beads".

Things You'll Need

• Large bead
• Ruler
• Seed beads
• Flush wire cutters

Instructions

1. Stop beading your bracelet or necklace when you have about three inches left of string or wire. Feed a large bead or button that measures anywhere between 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch wide onto the end. Slide the large "anchor" bead against the last beads of the necklace or bracelet.

2. Slip one smaller bead that matches the other beads in your piece of jewelry onto the wire after the anchor bead and slide it against the anchor bead. Loop the end of the wire around so that it passes back through the large bead. Twist the end of the wire tightly around the wire at the base of the anchor bead about seven times to secure it. Trim the excess wire with a pair of flush cutters.

3. Measure the other end of the wire with a ruler to determine how large to make the beaded loop. Start measuring from the last bead of the piece of jewelry to double the width of the anchor bead. If the anchor bead is 1/2 inch wide, mark the wire with a marker at one inch down from the last bead. Add three more beads for extra working room.

4. Add size 15 seed beads --- or other small beads that match the other beads in the piece of jewelry --- to the end until you reach the mark you made. Fold the line of beads down to form the loop and twist the end of the wire tightly around the wire at the base of the loop about seven times to keep it secured. Trim the excess wire. Put the piece of jewelry on and fasten it with the beaded clasp.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear eye protection when working with wire.

References

• Beading Daily: How to Create a Seed Bead Loop Clasp