Using The Bead Knotter™
A bead knotter, like The Bead Knotter™ makes it easy to tie consistent, professional-looking knots between beads and are perfect for pearl or gemstone jewelry. Ideal for both beginners and pros, this tool saves time and gives polished results. This video is hosted by jewelry expert Tammy Honaman.
Instructions
Determine the length of your finished necklace.
Cut a length of thread 4 times your determined finished length.
Thread on your needle, folding the thread in half. Tie the ends of the length of thread in an overhand knot, securing them together and leaving approximately 1-1/2 inch tails.
Note: Thread used is for illustration purposes only. It is recommended that you choose a thread color that matches the beads in your design.
Thread on two beads and one half of your clasp. Slide them down toward the knot.
French wire or a wire protector is recommended to prevent chafing to your thread.
Pass the needle back through the bead closest to the clasp.
Pull the working thread until the clasp is snug against the first bead, and one inch of thread remains between the first and second bead. Tie an overhand knot using the tail end and the working thread. Pull the knot tight so it rests against the pearl closest to the clasp.
Tip: Tweezers can be used to help tighten the knot closer to the bead.
Pass the working thread through the second bead then slide it against the first knot. Make an overhand knot using the tail thread and working thread. Tighten the knot down to the second bead. Tweezers can be used for this task.
String one bead onto the working thread. Tie an overhand knot by forming a loop in the working thread just past the beads, then pass the beads and clasp through the loop. Do not tighten the knot yet. Insert the awl of The Bead Knotter™ into the loop of the overhand knot then tighten so the knot rests snug against the next bead. Place the working thread in the fork of The Bead Knotter then pull to further tighten the knot against the bead and lift the tool, releasing the thread.
Repeat until the design is the desired length.
String on the second half of the clasp then pass the working thread back through the last bead strung. Slide the last bead, clasp and French wire or wire protector, down the thread to rest snug against each other. Tie a half-hitch knot between the last and second to last bead then tighten.
Apply a small amount of G-S Hypo Cement® to the thread between the first and second bead. Repeat to apply adhesive between the last and second to last bead.
Trim the remaining tails of thread once the adhesive has cured.
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The pieces featured in the Gallery of Designs are copyrighted designs and are provided for inspiration only. We encourage you to substitute different colors, products and techniques to make the design your own.
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