4 Crimping Hacks to Finish off Beaded Jewelry

By now, we all know the formula for proper crimping: wire diameter + corresponding crimp bead or tube + right size crimp tool = well constructed jewelry, but did you know that there are many other ways to finish off designs strung on beading wire? Whether you are not a fan of "traditional" crimping, you are looking for a different look, or just like to change it up a bit, consider these alternatives for finishing off strung designs.

1. EZ Crimp Findings - These findings are available in Silver Plated and in Gold Color, and in several designs - including one with a lobster claw attached. 

These are one of my favorite findings in the Beadalon catalog. They are great to use if you struggle with using crimp beads or tubes. They accommodate beading wire up to .024 diameter (although .018 or smaller is easier to thread through), and close easily with either the EZ Crimp Pliers or the rounded jaw of the Standard Crimping Pliers. Just like when you crimp with a crimp bead, you need to make sure you build in enough wiggle room so that the beads have enough room to be happy and not cause unnecessary tension on the bead stringing wire. A great clasp to use with the EZ Crimps is an EZ Lobster Clasp - no additional jump rings needed!

2. Bead Tips

Bead Tips are often used with silk cord to finish knotted jewelry, but they are also a great alternative for finishing a design strung on beading wire. To use a Bead Tip, string up your design, thread on the bead tip, and add a crimp bead on the end of the wire. I like looping the wire and back through the crimp for added security before crimping. Once everything is trimmed, pull the crimp into the bead tip. Use a chain nose pliers to gently squeeze the bead tip shut. Use a round nose pliers to close the loop. Repeat on the other side, but as always, make sure that your design isn't strung too tight.

3. Loop Crimps

Loop Crimps are similar to EZ Crimps, but they have a much larger hole and will accommodate wire or cording up to 1mm.  Once you put the stringing material into the hole, you can use either a chain nose pliers or the very tip of a crimping pliers pliers to flatten it. 

4. Tube Slide Ends

You may know these findings are a great way to finish off loom work or seed bead designs, but they are also great for making multi-strand crimped designs. After you've crimped the end of the wire, you can slide it into the slot in the finding. Here's one of my favorite designs made this way:

Looking for more tips and tricks? Check out the Facebook Live on Crimping Hacks. Do you have an alternative crimping technique that you like? Head on over to the Jewelry Making with Beadalon Facebook Group and let us know! Be sure to set your reminders and join us Live on Facebook each Thursday at 2pm ET. 

Until then, happy beading!
Meredith