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Ask the Experts Jump Rings Q&A

Q: What kind of jump rings do I need to use so they don't clump up and stick to the magnetic clasps? I've tried using stainless steel jump rings, but they still stick to the magnetic clasp. Thanks.

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Ask the Experts Eye Pins Q&A

Q: Does the length listed for the eye pins include the round head or just the shaft?

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Ask the Experts Polymer Clay Q&A

Q: I make old wine bottles into hummingbird feeders by beading them. If I make beads from polymer clay and finish them properly, will they be able to be used outdoors in bright sunlight and high (118 degrees) temperatures and still keep their color?

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Ask the Experts Fishhook Ear Wire Gauge Q&A

Q: I want to use pre-made fishhook ear wires but am confused over which gauge is best. I have received earrings that have fishhooks that are TOO thick to go into my pierced ears. Can you clarify which gauge is thick vs thin?

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Ask the Experts Choker Design Q&A

Q: I'd like to make 3- or 4-strand chokers with a cabochon in the center of the strands. Other than wire wrapping the cab, are there any settings that will allow me to do this? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

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Ask the Experts Stainless Steel Earring Wires Q&A

Q: Can I make earring wires from stainless steel wire? If so, explain the challenges and what gauge wire to use. Will it harden when hammered?

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Ask the Experts Split-Ring Pliers Q&A

Q: I have the split-ring pliers. They work fine for keyring size, but when you get down to 4-5mm rings, the pliers only open the ring a little, and I can't keep them open wide enough to insert my focal. I've tried sliding the ring up the shaft of the pliers to open it further, but then the beginning of the ring closes, and I can't slip my focal in. Any ideas?

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Ask the Experts Wire Gauge and Type Q&A

Q: I’m making wire-wrapped glass stud earrings. What gauge and wire type is the best? I’d like to use sterling silver. Would half-hard be sturdy enough for an earring back? Thank you.

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Ask the Experts Drill Holes Q&A

Q: What are the names of the types of drill holes for jewelry?

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: How do I use silk thread for necklace stringing so it won't relax and stretch?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: How can I keep a flat bead from turning on the head pin when I make earrings?

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Ask the Experts Glues Q&A

Q: What glue can be used when gluing cultured freshwater pearls to silver?

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Ask the Experts Finishing Q&A

Q: I am struggling with finishing a necklace with a delicate single charm. It is strung on a very delicate chain, and I have no earthly idea how to finish the chain so that I can then attach an equally delicate clasp. I am assuming that super glue is out, but what are my other choices? Thanks so very much for your kind assistance!

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I use Beadalon® 49-strand wire and 7-strand wire. What size crimps and wire protectors should I use on each size? Also, what size will I need if I use the 7-strand wire doubled?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Are rose gold and copper interchangeable colors for findings?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: What needle would you recommend for a loom project that is about 5 inches (94 columns) wide and uses 11/0 Delica seed beads? I'm having to thread back through just a few columns at a time with my standard #12 needle.

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Ask the Experts Crimp Tube Sizes Q&A

Q: What is the difference between a micro, a cut and a regular crimp tube and the proper use of each one? Also, why are there fancy crimp tubes when you’re going to crimp them anyway? It seems like you'd loose the "fancy" look after crimping.

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: What size silk thread should I use for stringing peridot chips for a necklace?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: What is a good gauge size for sterling silver head pins? I've been using some that I bought at a local craft store, but they don't say the gauge size. I want to buy silver 2-inch and 3-inch head pins.

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I always buy gemstone beads. I get them all over. Recently, I ran into an issue. I paid more than I usually would for what was pictured as nice looking "jewelry beads/agate" online, but what I received was a ton of HUGE drilled tumble stones with mineral deposits. The seller and I are in a disagreement about them being exactly as listed. What technically makes a bead a bead and a rock a rock? Is there a standard? Thanks!

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: I only use FireLine for my wrapped bracelets (chan-lu style) but I find it breaking quite often when I’m making sure tension is correct and all glass beads or semi-precious stones are in place and ready to tie off the project as I’m completing the bracelet. Please help. This is maddening.

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Ask the Experts Measuring Q&A

Q: What does 8x10mm glass bead mean?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Would you have a crimp cord that can be used for more than one cord? I am making a leather bracelet using 3 cords and cannot find a big enough crimp for it.

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: My necklace is a 16mm wide figaro. What size does my classic slide bail need to be?

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