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Beading Lesson

Tips for Making Toggle Bracelets
By: Katie Hacker

Sponsored by:
Beadalon®

For tools and supplies
visit Beadalon.com


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Toggle clasps are a popular way to finish bracelets – and it’s no wonder! Toggles look great and are easy to fasten with one hand.

To make a toggle bracelet, use a bead board to organize the beading pattern and measure the finished bracelet. Remember to include the clasp in your measurement. Since the toggle bar must fit through the ring, allow a little extra space or the bracelet will be too tight when worn.

To allow the bar to fit easily through the clasp, use a small bead or a crimp tube at the end of a design. Some clasps have a small length of chain attached to the bar to help the bar fit through the ring.

Keep in mind that bracelets receive a lot of wear and tear. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Use the largest diameter of beading wire (or other material) that will pass through the bead holes.
  • Use a bead reamer to smooth any rough bead hole edges.
  • Lay the bracelet in a curved shape before attaching the clasp. If the beads are too tight, the bracelet will not bend properly around the wrist and abrasion can occur.


When using large, chunky beads, separate them with a single smaller bead to make it easier to bend around the wrist. Remember that large beads affect the fit of the bracelet and make it necessary to add some extra length.

 

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