GUIDE - SHALL PEATERS AND CRIMPS

Here you will find an extended guide to clamping beads. In the guide we review different types of clamping pearls, which string is best to use and which pliers give the best result - and of course how to use this seaweed!

What is a clamping pearl?

Clamping beads, also called crimps or wire clamps, are small metal pearls that are squeezed with a pliers to finish a piece of jewelry. They are available in different sizes, but are typically used in sizes from 1.0-2.5 mm and in different types of metals.

Our experience shows that Clamping beads in silver have higher shelf life as they are thicker in the metal than, for example, brass.

When working with heavy beads, it may be a good idea to place two clamping beads on each side to make sure they can carry the weight better.

Clamping beads are available both Like round and as tubular - the choice between the two depends on the final finish you want to achieve!

If you are not a fan of the look that clamp beads give, you can take your finish to the next level by using a knot cover to save the clamping pearl.

What cord to use for clamping beads?

When using clamping beads, it is important to be aware that the metal edge becomes sharper when the pearl is squeezed together. Therefore, clamping pearls are not suitable for softer cords of organic materials such as jadesns, cotton cord or silk cord.

We recommend using Tigerwire, as it is a thin steel wire coated with nylon, which is not worn so easily by the edge of the clamping pearl.

Alternatively you can use a thicker Fishing lace, but there is a risk that the clamping pearl will over time wear the cord. However, fishing laces have the advantage that it can be bent and used for projects such as making pearl flowers, which tigerwire is not suitable for.

What seaweed to use?

If you make a lot of jewelry and are passionate about your creations, investing in quality tools may be a good idea. There is one Special seaweed for clamping pearls - You can find it here!

A regular one round or Flat pliers However, can also be used. They are versatile tools that can be used for many other tasks and are therefore a good beginner tool - you can find them here!

How to use a Crimp-Tang?

A Crimp-Tang has two notches that are used to squeeze the pearl together.

First you squeeze with the inner notch, which flattens the clamping pearl and makes a small notch in the middle. It is important to rotate the clamping pearl 90 degrees so that it stands on high. Next, you use the outermost notch to give the pearl the last squeeze so that it folds in the middle and gets completely squeezed - now the jewelry is finalized!

If you need additional guidance, you can find a video below where they also show how to use a Crimp-Tang!