Finishing a crocheted project can be a challenge. Perhaps one has used a colored wire or pearls and is unable to solder on a clasp or finding. Perhaps the wire being crocheted is too fine to use as a connector.
Here is a simple solder-free solution to finishing a crocheted necklace using commercial, sterling silver cones.
- Start with a 20 gauge sterling silver wire, 2.25 inches in length. Using forming pliers (one jaw is round the other flat on the inside ─ preferably tapered), make a “U” shape about .25 inches long.
- Place the crocheted loops into the “U” hook and close it tightly using pliers. Slide the other end of that wire into the sterling cone.
- About 3mm up from the end of the cone, bend the 20 gauge wire at a right angle against the flat side of the forming pliers.
- Then, holding the pliers in place, bend the wire around the round jaw of the pliers using one’s fingers. Once a complete loop has been made, reposition the loop so it is centered above the cone.
- Now, holding the loop in place with the forming pliers (round jaw on the inside of the loop), start wrapping the loose end of the wire around the 3mm “neck” just above the cone.
- When finished wrapping, use a flush cutter to eliminate any extra wire. I use my bent pliers to tuck in the last little bit of wire, if necessary.
- Repeat this process on the other side.
- Make an 18 gauge “S” hook for the closure and voila —the non-soldered clasp is complete!
Learn More:
Join Munya for Weaving With Wire May 16 and 17 to explore a variety of techniques for working with wire, including weaving, twining, braiding, knitting and soumak weaving, which can be applied in the making of jewelry, functional objects or sculpture.