Friday, May 8, 2009

Art Bead Clasp

With an art bead and some wire you can create a custom clasp that is adjustable.

Supplies:
6" of wire - 18 gauge
2 metal spacers
1 art bead

Instructions:
1. Cut two 3” lengths of wire.

2. On the first wire, form a large wrapped loop. Cut off extra wire with wire cutters. Use the flat nose pliers to flatten the end closer under the loop.

3. String on a spacer, disk bead and spacer. Form another large wrapped loop, as in step two.

4. Take the other piece of wire, make a tiny loop at one end with the round nose pliers and flatten it with the flat nose pliers. Grasp the middle of the wire with the round nose pliers and pull it to form a hook curve. Create a looped wrap at the desired length of your clasp.

Designer Tips:

Experiment with different art beads for unique clasps for your necklaces or bracelets. You could use a very large focal bead for a clasp that demands more attention. A larger bead wouldn't work as a dangle, but would be a great way to showcase a favorite bead.

Try copper wire if you are new to wire-wrapping, it's soft and more affordable than sterling silver. I purchase my copper wire at the local hardware store.

4 comments:

rosebud101 said...

Thanks, that's a wonderful tutorial!

Alice said...

Beautiful clasp and beads! Thanks for the great tutorial.
Alice

TesoriTrovati said...

Heather, that is such a pretty bead....I was mez-mo'd by it before I read the tutorial! Ha! Thanks for sharing that tip! I am just starting to create some of my own clasps and that gives me a great idea. Enjoy the day! Erin

Jen Judd said...

Heather - great idea!! I'm excited to try it out!