Tips on Using Metal Findings if You Have a Metal Allergy

by Debbie Blair
When you are making jewelry for yourself or someone else with a metal allergy, you will want to avoid having metal components touch the skin of the wearer.
Instructions
Brush three to four coats of clear nail polish on metal findings, letting each coat dry before adding the next.

This will add a buffer between the metal and your skin.

Be sure to test the nail polish on an extra finding before adding the polish to all of the findings in your piece of jewelry.
Debbie Blair's Tips on Using Metal Findings if You Have a Metal Allergy - , General Education, , metal allergies
Create a Button-and-Loop Clasp with Beading Wire
Here's how you make it:

1. Measure Your Wire
Cut a length of nylon-coated beading wire long enough to string all your beads and components.

Leave about 3 extra inches on one end to form the clasp loop.
Debbie Blair's Tips on Using Metal Findings if You Have a Metal Allergy - Create a Button-and-Loop Clasp with Beading Wire, General Education, , measure your wire
2. Attach the button
String a crimp bead followed by a button (plastic, wood, or glass-either through the holes or shank).

Flatten the crimp bead with pliers to secure the button in place.

Now, string your beads in the desired pattern for your design.
Debbie Blair's Tips on Using Metal Findings if You Have a Metal Allergy - , General Education, , attach the button
3. Form the loop closure

On the other end of the necklace or bracelet:

- Add another crimp bead

- Then string several size 11 or size 8 seed beads to form a loop that will fit over the button.

- Test the loop size-add or remove beads as needed.

- Thread the wire back through the crimp bead and flatten it to secure the loop.
Pro Tip: If you use larger beads on either side of the crimp beads, they'll help ensure the crimps don't come in contact with your skin.
Debbie Blair's Tips on Using Metal Findings if You Have a Metal Allergy - , General Education, , form the loop closure
4. Optional method - use thread instead

You can also use needle and thread in place of beading wire.

Simply knot between beads to form the loop, and pass through the beads multiple times to reinforce the closure.

Materials

Sterling Silver Crimp Beads 2x3mm - Pack of 25
K10-23
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $13.06
  • Gold Club Price: $9.80
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Tools

Mighty Crimper
PLR-584.00
  • PLR-584.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $14.97
  • Gold Club Price: $11.23
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): General Education