How-to: Attach or Replace a Clasp

Have a necklace that you haven't worn because the clasp is broken or making your own jewelry?

Learn how to attach a clasp to a chain using jump rings with this step-by-step tutorial.

Supplies

• 2 Needle Nose Pliers
• Jump Rings
• Clasp

All supplies for this project can be found at our Bonney Lake store.

Before we get started, you will need to learn how to properly open and close a jump ring. There is a split in the jump rings, which allow you to connect them to other items.

Your first initial thought may be to open the jump ring by pulling it apart. That is actually the incorrect way to open a jump ring. Pulling the jump ring apart and pushing it back together to close is not secure. Doing it this makes it hard to secure the split, which may cause it to disconnect, resulting in a lost jewelry piece.

Incorrect way to open a jump ring.

To properly open a jump ring using needle nose pliers, place your pliers on each side of where the split is and pull one end of the jump ring towards you, and one end away from you. You would use to the same procedure to close it, aligning each side of the ring.

Correct way to open a jump ring.

Attach a Clasp

1. Using needle nose pliers, open the jump ring. 
2. Hook it onto one end of the chain.
3. Close it to attach it to the chain.
4. Open another jump ring and hook it to the other end of the chain.
5. Add your clasp to the jump ring.
6. Close it to attach it to the chain with the clasp.

Remove a Clasp

1. Starting on the one end, use needle nose pliers to open the jump ring.
2. Remove the jump ring.
3. Open the other jump ring on the other side of the chain and remove the clasp and jump ring.

If you plan on attaching another clasp, we suggest using new jump rings if the old jump rings are worn.

Watch Nancy in this video to learn how to attach or replace a clasp for a necklace or bracelet.

Want to learn more? Visit our Beading Tips & Techniques on our website here.