Bead the Buddha

Crimp beads are most often used when stringing a beaded piece, which has been strung with beading wire. The crimp beads finish the end of the beaded piece of jewelry and help create a loop for the clasp to be attached to. They can be used in the place of a bead tip or in addition to one in order to help keep the knot inside of the bead tip.

There are two kinds of crimp beads: tube shaped and round shaped. The tube shaped crimp beads are most often available in sterling or gold-filled, while the round are normally made of base metal. While it's all a matter a taste and preference, I have to say that I have found the tube shaped crimp beads to be much easier to work with. So, if you are new crimping, I would recommend starting with tubes.

To attach a crimp, follow these steps: