Q: Hi Bailey,
My question for you is, what is the best and easiest way (as I am a beading novice) to tie off or end a beaded bracelet or necklace using non-elastic string? I have just gotten into beading and have made quite a few anklets and necklaces but always using wire and putting clasps on the end. I just wondered how you would go about using string and fishing line. I have purchased quite a lot of these materials and would like to start using them. I ran out of clasps and tubes and wondered if there was anything I could do while waiting for my order to arrive. Thank you in advance for your time and expertise.
Julie
A: Hello Julie,
Using jewelry wire with crimps and clasps is the simplest and most secure method for finishing your beaded strands. If you are referring to string such as beading cord you can knot at the end of the strand but if you want the jewelry item to be removable you still need some sort of clasp or closure. Traditionally the cord is attached to a clasp and then knotted and glued. If you are trying to avoid a clasp, you can make a sliding knot closure. This works best with a heavier cord such as hemp or silk cording.
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To make the sliding closure:
Overlap the two ends of the cord. Take the end of the cord on the right, and tie a simple overhand knot over the cord on the left. Then take the end of the cord on the left, and tie a knot over the cord on the right. Knot the ends of the cord to prevent fraying. Trim if necessary.�
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Sincerely,
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Bailey Beader
www.artbeads.com
Bailey,
I am having difficulty threading softflex wire through large 30mm silver beads. I cannot figure out what would help I have tried threading just the wire through, attaching wire to a headpin(parallel) with a small piece of tape, and also purchased two kinds of needles. None of these seem effective. Have any suggestions???