AUNTIE’S BEADS, EST. 2000
TECHNIQUE
A beautiful finish should feel good to use.
Jasper + copper: design inspiration from our Create the Style work.
Before changing the clasp, look at what surrounds it: the end beads, the wire tension, and the finished fit.
01 Give the bar room to move
The bar must pass through the ring and turn across it. A bulky end bead can get in the way. Try a smaller bead near the bar, or a short section of chain. Include the added length when checking fit.
The ring and bar attach to opposite ends of the bracelet. This example adds a short chain at the bar end; smaller end beads are another option.
02 Let the bracelet bend
Before the final crimp, curve the bracelet into a U. Check that the beads and clasp move without binding. Aim for flexibility, with no long exposed loop of wire.
03 Check the opening and the fit
A listed clasp size is not necessarily the size of its opening. Keep the matching ring and bar together, then test them with your intended end beads.
Fasten and unfasten the bracelet several times. Move your wrist. The bar should rest across the ring; the bracelet should neither bind nor hang so loosely that the bar can readily slip back through.
The materials edit
Catalog photos shown at different scales. Listed sizes are not measured ring openings.
Still awkward? Revisit the fit or try a lobster clasp. For finishing help, see our crimping guide.