How to Clamp Multiple Strands of Suede Lace
The first one is for when you are working with multiple strands of suede lace. The easiest way to finish the ends of the lace is to use a ribbon clamp but it can sometimes be a bit difficult to keep multiple strands of lace together whilst you feed them into the clamp to close it.
The solution: Lay a piece of tape on your workspace and place each lace in position. Make sure to leave enough space to attach the clamp without securing the tape as well!
Slide on the clamp and press it closed with flat nose pliers to secure all the pieces of lace perfectly in position.
Once you've clamped it, you can gently peel away the tape making sure you don't pull out the pieces of lace.Then just attach a jump ring and a clasp to the ribbon clamp and you have a neat and secure finish on your bracelet.
How to Set Press Studs and Snap Closures
Press studs are another really neat way to finish a design. They are strong and secure and give your bracelet a really professional finish. For this technique, I'm using Realeather's Snap Setter Kit which comes with a metal setter, metal anvil and 20 snaps. You'll also need a hole punch and a hammer.The studs come in 4 pieces: two for the top stud and two for the base.
Work out where you want the stud to be and punch a hole at each end of the bracelet. For a wide bracelet, two press studs will help the bracelet sit better.
Place the cap of the stud on the base of the anvil, place the hole over the shank and then the stud over the top. Line the setter up in the stud and hammer it to flatten the shank.
At the other end of the bracelet, you need to do the same thing with the base components of the stud but make sure that you have the components facing the right way so that the bracelet will snap closed.
Simple, uncomplicated and secure. And the second press stud makes the closure sit nicely as well as making it really comfortable to wear.
Here's a gorgeous leather cuff that uses press studs for the closure:
Bejewelled Leather Cuff
I hope these two tips will encourage you to consider including leather and suede in your jewellery making. It adds a lovely organic touch to your designs and it feels wonderful against your skin.
'Til next time.....
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