How-to: Attach a Clasp to a Cord

We receive a lot of questions on how to attach a clasp to a leather or satin cord.

But before we show you how to do that, you will need to know 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.

Supplies

• 1 Flat Nose Plier
• 1 Needle Nose Plier
• 2 Leather Crimps
• 2 Jump Rings
• Clasp
• E-6000 or G-S Hypo Cement

1.  Place a dot of glue in the channel of one leather crimp. 

2.  Clamp first one side and then the other down to hold the cord.

3.  Open a jump ring and attach one side of the clasp. 

4.  Close the jump ring.

That's it! Simple enough, right?

Watch Nancy walk through the steps in attaching a clasp to a cord.

If you're looking to learn how to bead, solder and wire wrap to make your own jewelry, check out all of our jewelry making classes we have to offer here.