1. Do certain crimping beads work better by popular vote? The tube, the round, certain metals.........I find that maybe because I'm a newbie Im having issues with breaking the crimp bead or just not getting it tight enough where the pulls apart. maybe tool? or bead type? Technique i believe is ok compared to videos I wanted
2. Clasps......A lot seem to discolor. Any advice before I go to stainless or vermeil, or filled. Also is nickel and lead free...is it important in this industry?
Id appreciate any advice.....
3. Is there a top of line line nylon etc for string necklaces and bracelets
KC19
Potomacbeadco,
Thank you for that info and the video. Its very helpful
My major issue is that when I'm done making a bracelet or necklace, my finished piece breaks when I pull on the toggles to test the crimping.
I use 2x2 tubes and was having the line slide out. That I fixed by squeezing harder and making sure the line was set correctly.
The line breaks 30% of the time about .5 inch up from the crimp. I using a 7 strand .038mm Beadalon, should I go bigger?
Correction .38mm
KC19:I using a 7 strand .038mm Beadalon, should I go bigger?
KC19,
I am not Potmacbeadco, but here is my answer to your questions
The general rule of beading is to use the heaviest or largest wire that will fit though the beads. I will generally use a 49strand .018" wire. The more stands, the less likely to kink, and the larger the wire, the stronger. A 49 strand .018 wire will will withstand beads that are pretty heavy. I also will only use either sterling silver, gold filled, or copper crimps with thick walls. The reason for these crimps is that they are soft and make a good connection, and rarely fail if crimped correctly. Some cheaper crimps have a tendency to be bridle, which causes crimp failure.
I hope I was able to help you with you questions.
Happy Beading!!
Sue,
Temperance,Michigan
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