Braiding strings of beads...Help!

kmiko wrote

on Mar 12, 2011 7:59 AM

I am looking for suggestions. I am makeing a bracelet by braiding strings of beads. I am all good till the end needs finished. Can anyone help? Suggestions please.

Kerrrie

Ceffyl1 wrote

on Mar 12, 2011 8:46 AM

What trouble are you having with finishing the ends?

I have done a bracelet like this, and I finished by tying the three ends into one knot and slid a large hole bead over it. Mine was seed beads, so I used an E bead as the large bead to hide the knot,then I threaded  the three ends through a clasp and returned through the bigger bead and then finished the threads in the bracelet. When I made mine, the clasp attachment end tucked neatly into the large bead, which was tidy, but didn't leave much room for fingers when you are trying to do it up. I was concerned about the thread ends, but  I found the threads have lasted quite well anyway.

So If I were to do it again, here is what I would change; to have more room to do the clasp up, I would probably use one or two smaller beads after the big one making sure the holes are big enough for three ends to go through twice, or  I thought I might use french boullion wire, as it looks a bit nicer, but there can be dificulty in fitting three threads through it if it is too fine, or the other alternative would have been a different style of clasp. I used a lobster, but a toggle might have been a better choice. 

Hope this helps.

sixbeader wrote

on Sep 18, 2011 12:49 PM

Would bead cones work?

Rachel

SCB1 wrote

on Sep 18, 2011 6:43 PM

yes, I used ones similar to the one in the link.

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/beadsouk/2734869/3_to_1_reducer_sterling_silver_ornate_bali_bead_cone_14mm_set_of_one/supplies/jewelry_supplies/findings/other_

I hope this helps.

Happy Beading.

untmom2003 wrote

on Sep 23, 2011 9:22 AM

are you using beading wire or thread? I've used beading wire, then on each end put a crimp tube inside these double loop bead tips. Then put a jump ring through all three bead tips and attached to lobster clasp or magnetic clasp. I LOVE these bead tips. Just have to be sure they are sized for the correct sized crimp tube.

http://www.firemountaingems.com/details.asp?pn=H206672FD

Be sure to post pics of your finished project!! Can't wait to see it!

eliz1967 wrote

on Oct 31, 2011 1:56 PM

Hello,

I may be able to help but I need a bit more information.  Are the beads all braided onto one braid or are you braiding three separate strands of beads together?  Also, what cord are you using?

Sandra