Ethan Clarke
There are several ways to tie off plastic beading wire, and the best method depends on the type of wire and the desired aesthetic of the final piece. For example, using an 8-Knot with Soft Flex or Soft Touch beading wire will keep the wire in a continuous line, with no bend on either side of the knot. Alternatively, a simple overhand knot can be used to tie off plastic beading wire, by creating a U-shape with the loose end of the wire and pulling the ends tight to form a pretzel shape.
Characteristics and Values of Tying Off Plastic Beading Wire
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Knot type | Overhand knot, Figure Eight knot, Square knot, Half hitch knot, Sliding knot |
| Materials | Nylon, Polyester, Silk, Monofilament, Illusion cord, Braided thread, Fishing line, Beading wire, Memory wire, Beading cord, Elasticity cord |
| Tools | Memory wire shears, Sandpaper, Epoxy or BeadFix glue, End caps, Bead Bumpers, Wire looping tools, Wire nipper, Scissors, Bead stringing glue, Jeweler's cement |
| Techniques | Bury the knot, Use tension when tying, Double-wrap the cord, Trim excess thread, Use crimps and clasps, Overlap cord ends, Prevent fraying |
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What You'll Learn
Using the 8-Knot technique
The 8-Knot is a rock climbing knot that ensures superior strength and keeps the plastic beading wire in a continuous line, with no bend on either side of the knot. This technique is recommended for use with Soft Flex or Soft Touch beading wire. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tie off plastic beading wire using the 8-Knot technique:
Step 1: Begin a Loop
Pick up one end of your beading wire and create a bend. This will be the starting point of your knot.
Step 2: Make a Loop
Take the end of the wire and form a loose loop by passing it over the strand that leads to the rest of the wire. Hold this single loop in place. This step is crucial in creating the foundation for the figure-eight shape.
Step 3: Pass Underneath the Wire
Now, take the end of the wire and pass it underneath the rest of the strand. This action will create a second loop, which will intersect with the first one, forming the figure eight.
Step 4: Complete the Figure Eight
Take the end of the wire and pass it through the initial loop from the top, exiting at the bottom. Pull the end of the wire all the way through. At this point, you will have created a complete Figure 8-Knot.
Step 5: Tighten the Knot
Depending on the thickness of your wire, you may need to use your fingertips or both hands to tighten the knot securely. Ensure that the knot is snug and will not come undone.
The 8-Knot technique is a reliable method for securing plastic beading wire, providing both strength and a seamless appearance. With practice, you can master this knot and create durable and aesthetically pleasing jewelry pieces.
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Tying a sliding knot closure
To create a sliding knot closure, first, overlap the two ends of the cord. Take the end of the cord on the right and tie a simple overhand knot over the cord on the left. Repeat this process with the left cord, tying a knot over the cord on the right. This will create a sliding knot that can be tightened and loosened to adjust the size of the jewellery piece. Finally, knot the ends of the cord to prevent fraying and trim if necessary.
It is important to note that the type of knot used will depend on the type of beading wire being used. For example, the 8-Knot is recommended for Soft Flex or Soft Touch Beading Wire as it keeps the wire in a continuous line, with no bend on either side of the knot. To create this knot, begin by creating a loose loop at the end of the wire. Pass the end of the wire underneath the rest of the strand to form a second loop. Then, take the end of the wire and pass it through the first loop from the top, exiting at the bottom. Pull the end of the wire all the way through to complete the figure-eight shape.
Another option for securing beading wire is to use glue or epoxy. Add a drop of bead stringing glue or jeweller's cement to the knot and allow it to dry before cutting off any excess cord. You can also use memory wire shears to cut memory wire and create a professional finish by adding an end cap with glue.
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Creating a pretzel shape knot
To create a pretzel shape knot with plastic beading wire, you can follow these steps:
First, take the loose end of the wire and bring it back towards the other side of the wire in a U-shape. Imagine you are drawing the letter U on a flat surface with the wire. Ensure that the U-shape is not too tight and that there is some slack in the wire.
Next, cross the end of the wire over the other side of the wire, forming a pretzel shape or a figure eight. You can visualize this step as looping the wire around itself, creating a twist in the centre. The wire should now resemble a pretzel with an open centre.
To close the pretzel shape, carefully pull the open ends of the wire. This action will tighten the knot and bring the two ends together. Ensure that you do not over-tighten the knot, as it may become challenging to add beads later.
Finally, you can add beads to your wire and repeat the process to knot the other end of your jewellery piece. It is recommended to practice this technique with a piece of yarn or another type of wire before attempting it with plastic beading wire.
The above method creates a simple and secure knot for your plastic beading wire, resulting in a neat and attractive jewellery piece.
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Using crimps and clasps
First, take a length of beading wire and thread on a crimp bead or tube. Position it roughly 2 inches from one end of the wire. The type of crimp you use is important; it should match the size of your wire. Tube crimp beads are a good option as they prevent sharp edges from cutting into the wire. The inner diameter of the crimp should be large enough for the beading wire to pass through twice. If you are using a crimp cover, ensure it is large enough to cover the bead or tube.
Next, thread on a jump ring, then pass the short end of the beading wire back through the crimp tube, creating a loop that traps the jump ring. Slide the crimp tube up towards the jump ring so that the loop is tight but still has enough space to attach a crimp cover. Ensure the wires inside the crimp tube are parallel and not crossing over, as this can cause the wire to break.
Now, use chain nose pliers to squeeze and flatten the crimp tube, securing the beading wire in place. Work the pliers backward and forward over the crimp tube to ensure a secure hold.
Finally, attach your clasp to the jump ring. You can also use a wire clasp and squeeze it together with pliers, then close the crimp cover around the wire.
For added durability, you can use French wire (also known as "bullion" or "gimp") to cover the beading thread where it meets the clasp. French wire is a tiny, coiled wire that protects the thread from abrasion and comes in different diameters and finishes.
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Gluing the knot
Step 1: Create a Knot
Start by forming a secure knot with your beading wire. You can do this by taking the loose end of the wire and creating a U-shape, crossing it over the other side to form a pretzel shape. Pull the ends to tighten the knot. You can also try the 8-Knot, a rock-climbing knot that keeps the wire in a continuous line without any bends. To do this, create a loose loop, pass the end of the wire underneath itself, and then pass it through the loop from the top, exiting at the bottom.
Step 2: Apply Glue
Once you have a secure knot, it's time to add the glue. Take your bead stringing glue, jeweller's cement, or epoxy glue, and carefully apply a small drop directly onto the knot. Make sure the glue covers all the surfaces of the knot, seeping into the small spaces between the wires.
Step 3: Allow Drying
Let the glue dry completely. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the glue sets properly and your knot is securely held in place. The drying time may vary depending on the type of glue you use and the amount you applied. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying times.
Step 4: Tuck the Knot
After the glue has dried, carefully tuck the knot inside the closest bead hole if possible. This step helps to conceal the knot, giving your jewellery a neat and professional finish. Gently push the knot into the bead, ensuring it is secure and doesn't unravel.
Step 5: Optional: Spot Gluing
For added security, especially if you're working with multiple beads, consider spot-gluing the last few beads together. Apply a small amount of glue to the inside of the bead holes, allowing it to dry before threading the wire through. This technique helps to hold the entire piece together and prevents the beads from sliding off the wire.
Remember, the key to gluing the knot effectively is to work carefully and patiently, ensuring each step is completed accurately before moving on. With these steps, you can confidently secure your beading wire and create long-lasting jewellery pieces.
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Frequently asked questions
Using jewelry wire with crimps and clasps is the simplest and most secure method for finishing your beaded strands. If you are referring to a beading cord, you can knot the end of the strand. If you want the item to be removable, you will need some sort of clasp or closure.
You can use nylon beading thread (e.g. Nymo, C-lon), strong polyester or silk beading thread, monofilament, or illusion cord if you don't want the thread to be visible. For a stiffer effect, you can use braided threads like Fireline.
Thread your beads onto the elastic cord, measure the length, and then tie a double knot. Make sure to tighten both knots very tightly.
The 8-Knot is a secure knot for beading wire as it keeps the wire in a continuous line with no bend on either side of the knot. To tie this knot, create a loose loop, pass the end of the wire underneath the rest of the strand to form a second loop, and then pass the end of the wire through the first loop from the top, exiting at the bottom. Pull the end of the wire all the way through.
