This is one of my favorite clasps to make for bracelets or necklaces. You can make it from just about any object and it really makes your design continuous.

Materials needed:
Fine sliver or sterling wire (gauge depending on project-20 to 16g)
Pencil torch and fire safe heating block
Third hand with cross lock tweezers tool
Object or bead
Steel block
Chasing hammer
Liver of Sulfur
Pumice
Brass Brush

Instructions:
1.  Cut your wires to desired length – we recommend around 2” for the object piece and 1 ½” for the hook.
2.  Place your wire in the cross lock tweezers and ball up your wires with a small flame torch (you can also use copper wire – which is great for practicing on) and leave to cool.
3.  String your “button” like object onto the wire and finish with a wrapped loop – the coiled section should leave enough room for your hook to fit around. For an added decorative look, you can use a different colored wire for the coil.
4.  Create a hook with the second balled up wire using round nose pliers.
5.  Hammer the hook shape with the flat face of the chasing hammer on the steel block – this work hardens it (makes it strong and rigid).
6.  Optionally, you can oxidize or antique the finish with liver of sulfur.
7.  You can now pumice away the oxidation, leaving the recessed areas (i.e. coil) dark. Rinse the pumice and finish by brass brushing with a drop of dish soap.
8.  Attach to your jewelry piece with jump rings.

For more information visit www.candiecooper.com