Captured Bead Tutorial

This is the first tutorial I've done and probably the last.  I can't stand to see my shaking hands up close and the huffing and puffing trying to start the camera and get in position and then turn it off afterwards isn't pretty.
I saw a captured bead bracelet online and loved it but couldn't find any instructions, so I tried it and found it to be very simple and easy to do.  One error in the video - in the first set of jump rings, after the first bead is inserted, it says "pick up all six."  That should be all four.
Anyway, here it is and I hope it is easy enough to understand and gives someone a new technique that they didn't have.  And I'm not giving up my day job.

Copper Bird Clasps

These clasps can be used as a toggle clasp or fixed on one side and used with an "S" hook on the other.  Or use your imagination; I'd love to see some other people's designs with them.

Bird One:  2" or 5 cm. from beak to tip of tail.  He would sit horizontally, as shown.  The blue on my computer screen is darker than his actual colour, which is more a teal blue.  His position gives the opportunity of setting beads or wires below him for perching or nesting.




Bird 2 is meant to sit on a slight vertical angle, so would be best in a necklace.  He's also 2" or 5 cm. long and has a bit of an antique patina.  He's very elegant in person. 

Bird 3 is obviously a budgie or parrot judging from the type of beak and he has a beautiful blue patina.  He would probably sit on a slight upright angle so might be best for a necklace. 

Bird 4 has a patina that is aging nicely and will get darker as he gets older.  Any of these birds can be cleaned up with a ketchup or lemon juice bath and rub, but it would take away some of their character. 

All of the clasps on this page are for sale and the price is $13 including first class mail shipping or 2 for $23.  

Fire Agate Necklace with one of the Bird Clasps

Copper Clasps with a Difference

The kitty is my favourite, with a ring on the back and a small ring in front of his paw.  Leave it as it is,or add a bead for kitty to play with.

The cat is about 2" tall with a ring on the back and would probably suit being used as a focal better than as a clasp.

These are all at different stages of patination and I might leave them to get darker or might shine them up again.  Haven't decided.