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Daily Tip July 7: Handmade Wire Clasps

By on July 6, 2010
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
July 7, 2010

Question:

I was wondering what your favorite wire clasp is? Personally, I don’t care for the “S” clasp. It seems to come loose and then fall off. I don’t like to use 20- or 21-gauge for the clasps for my bracelets, because it’s not heavy enough. I find that 18- or 16-gauge is better. What do you suggest?

-Judy in Little Falls, New York

Answer:

My favorite handmade clasp for bracelets is the hook and eye (click here and hover over the clasp). Depending on the width of the bracelet, I do use 20-gauge half hard round for 6 wires or less and either 18- or 16-gauge round soft wire for wider versions (it work-hardens very quickly). Because of the “lock” made into the tip, this hook does not easily slip out of the eye, if the eye is not too wide.

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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