DIY Basics-Necklace Clasp Tutorial

You'll want to make sure to open the link by twisting it, not pulling it apart. I will show you my sweet, sweet Paint skillz to clarify what I mean; 

First of all, you're going to need to round up your tools. You will need;

-Chain
-Beading Pliers (I used flat nose pliers and chain nose pliers)
-Open Jump Rings (I used 5mm so you can see them better, but you should find a size that compliments your chain)
-Lobster or Spring Ring Clasp
-Tag (the doohicky that the clasp will be clasping onto)
-Measuring tape
-A magical charm to complete your necklace! 

Let's get started! 

First you'll want to measure out your necklace chain to the length that you prefer. Some standard necklace lengths are; 16" 18" 20" 24" 28" etc. You should try your chain on and make sure it sits at a comfortable place for you. 

Today I'm going to show you how to take a chunk of chain and turn it into a functioning piece of jewelry! 

To remove your chain link from the spool you'll need to take your beading pliers and twist the link so it opens up.

Jewelry findings. (Ps, your jump rings do not need to be this large!)

Twisting the link ensures it will fit back together correctly. Pulling the link apart destroys the shape of the metal, it also weakens the link.

Next you will close the link that you just removed from the chain spool and slide your charm onto the chain. You'll want to do this now because your charm might not fit over the clasp later. 

Now we can start attaching the clasp and tag to turn this lonely chain into a beautiful piece of jewelry! Using your pliers, open your jump rings the same way you opened your chain to remove it from the spool. Twist!

Now, slide your clasp on one jump ring and slide your tag onto the other, leaving both jump rings open. 

Grab your chain and attach the ends to opposing jump rings.

The best way to close the jump rings without all your findings falling off is to hold your jump ring with the opening facing upwards and the chain and clasp on the bottom. This way you can grab the ring on each side with the pliers without anything getting away. Close your jump rings by twisting them back into place.

You've just turned a chain into a real, live piece of jewelry! 

Congratulations, you've done it! 

Here is the tutorial for making the cute, little Dino monster if you need to make your own. 

This is a basic technique but a valuable skill to have in your crafty arsenal. I will be posting more DIY basics for small finishing techniques and simple technical skills. I hope you found this tutorial helpful and that you create something amazing! 

Thanks for stopping by!

-Ashley