Using Spacer Bars in Multi-Strand Designs
Instructions
Assess the length your design will be. Subtract the length the spacer bars and the clasp will add to your design and then figure out how big each section of beads will be in between the spacer bars and the clasp.
Step 1
Using flush-cutters, cut a length of Accu-Flex® professional-quality beading wire to the length of your design, plus 3-4 inches. Repeat to cut enough for the amount of strands in your design.
Step 2
Place a bead stopper on one end of a length of Accu-Flex beading wire. String onto the length of Accu-Flex beading wire, one crimp tube and your first set of beads. String on one spacer bar.
Repeat for the remaining sections, ending with a crimp tube. Place a bead stopper on the end to keep the beads in place.
Step 3
Place the end of a second strand of Accu-Flex beading wire into one of the bead stoppers used in Step 2. String a crimp tube and the set of beads for the next strand. Pass the Accu-Flex beading wire through the appropriate hole in the spacer bar. Repeat all the way across, finishing with a crimp tube. Place the end into the bead stopper from the first strand.
Step 4
String a crimp tube and the set of beads for the next strand. Pass the Accu-Flex beading wire through the appropriate hole in the spacer bar. Repeat all the way across, finishing with a crimp tube. Place the end into the bead stopper from the first strand.
Repeat until you have strung beads on all of the strands in your design. Assess the design to make sure you are pleased with the arrangement and that the sections are equal. Make any necessary changes before proceeding.
Release the top strand from one bead stopper. String on a length of French wire or an Accu-Guard™. Thread the beading wire through the top loop on one half of the clasp then back through the crimp tube. Move the beads toward the crimp tube, pull on the short end of the wire, tightening up the distance between the clasp and the crimp tube. Crimp the crimp tube.
Repeat for the other half of the strand--tightening up the beads so there are no gaps in the wire yet the strand is still flexible. Repeat for the remaining strands until they are all secure.