Master the Professional Finish: How to Use Crimp Covers in Jewelry Making
If you’ve ever finished a beaded necklace or bracelet, you know that the crimp bead is essential for security—but it’s not exactly pretty. To take your DIY jewelry from "handmade" to "high-end boutique," you need to master the crimp cover.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to hide those utilitarian squashed beads with a seamless, professional finish.
What is a Crimp Cover?
A crimp cover is a tiny, hollow metal bead shaped like a "C" or a horseshoe. It is designed to slide over a fastened crimp bead and, when closed, looks exactly like a seamless metal bead.
Why Use Them?
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Professionalism: They hide ugly, flattened crimp beads.
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Comfort: They cover sharp edges that might scratch the wearer's skin.
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Uniformity: They allow your focal beads to flow right up to the clasp without a visible "mechanical" break.
Step-by-Step: How to Install a Crimp Cover
Using crimp covers is simple, but it requires a gentle touch and the right tools.
1. Secure Your Crimp Bead
First, finish your jewelry as usual. Thread your wire through the crimp bead, around your clasp, and back through the crimp. Use crimping pliers to fold and secure the bead. Trim the excess wire.
2. Position the Cover
Hold the crimp cover in the tips of your chain-nose pliers (or specialized crimp cover pliers). Place the open "mouth" of the cover directly over the flattened crimp bead.
3. Close with Care
Slowly squeeze the pliers. You want the two edges of the "C" to meet perfectly.
Pro Tip: Don't squeeze too hard all at once! Rotate the bead in your pliers and squeeze gently from different angles to ensure it stays perfectly round.
4. The Final Polish
Once closed, the seam should be barely visible. If it looks a little lopsided, give it one final, very light squeeze to round it out.
Tips for Using Crimp Covers
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when using crimp covers in your jewelry making:
Tip 1: Practice Makes Perfect
Like any new technique, using crimp covers may take some practice to master. Start with inexpensive materials to hone your skills before using them in your final jewelry pieces.
Tip 2: Use the Right Tools
Invest in quality crimping pliers and chain-nose pliers to ensure that you can crimp and cover your beads effectively. The right tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your jewelry pieces.
By mastering the art of using crimp covers, you can take your jewelry making skills to the next level and create professional-looking pieces that stand out. Experiment with different sizes and finishes of crimp covers to add a touch of elegance to your designs. Happy crafting!