This
beading lesson gives you an overview of clasps. There are so many different
kinds!
Many of them are interchangeable, but some have special features.
Use spring ring, barrel and torpedo clasps for simple, lightweight designs.
They're inexpensive and easy to attach.
Hook and eye clasps are also simple to attach and are even easier to
fasten. S hooks are similar to hook and eye clasps, but they have a hook
on both ends of the clasp. This gives your design a very symmetrical look.
Close one hook and leave the other one slightly open for easy fastening.
Lobster clasps are a favorite choice. Two-ring lobster clasps have a
more linear look and come with rings attached so you can just attach each
end of the design to one of the rings.
Filigree clasps are used for multiple strand designs. Attaching each
end of the design to a corresponding loop on the claps prevents the strands
from becoming tangled.
Magnetic clasps come in a variety of shapes. They're strong and eliminate
fumbling with tiny latches and hooks. They're especially good for people
who have trouble fastening other clasps.
Toggle clasps are especially nice for heavier designs. They're also good
for bracelets because you can fasten them with one hand. One thing to
keep in mind is that the end of the design must be small enough to fit
through the ring part of the clasp. You can either use small beads or
add a piece of chain to the bar end of the toggle. Remember that the design
will be a bit shorter when worn because the bar fits through the ring.
Duet clasps look similar to toggle clasps, but the two ends fit together
instead of placing a bar through a ring. With duet clasps, you don't have
to worry about whether the end of the design will fit through the ring,
and you don't have to allow for the design to be a bit shorter when worn.
EZ crimp clasps are a unique style of clasp that crimps directly onto
the beading wire. They're available in toggle, "S" hook and
hook-and-eye styles. They're really easy to attach and give your design
a professional-looking finish.
212-2 A –
toggle clasp
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212-2B –
barrel clasp
212-2C - torpedo
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