Traditional and non-traditional ends for bead designs including memory wire, bead crochet, and caps.
Memory Wire:
Memory wire is great to work with, but if you're unsure how to make the loops often described as ends when working with it, finishing a piece with it can be stressful. Half-drilled beads are the answer for memory wire. Exactly like they sound, they are beads that are only drilled halfway through. The ends of the memory wire are inserted into the drilled side with a bit of bonding filament and, voila`, your ends are finished.
Threaded Seed Bead Designs:
Ending an item made with seed beads can be accomplished in many ways. Bead caps mentioned previously are one way to end a seed bead creation. Clasps tied at each end are another, but one simple way to end a seed bead necklace or bracelet is to finish with a larger bead on one end. On the corresponding end, bead a loop of beads large enough to slide over the other ends large bead. This should be a snug fit so as not to just fall off. For stability and strength, run thread through the loop of beads several times. Finish by threading one more time back into loop of seed beads. A knot tied at the end will also help secure the thread.
Bead Crochet Ends:
Similar to the ending described when working with seed beads, fashion a loop at the end of a crochet-beaded design with the thread. A crocheted ball or large bead on the corresponding end can be used to secure the loop over. Keep in mind tension and strength of loop if ending a crocheted article this way though. The loop can have a tendency to stretch out of shape if not made well.
Bead Caps:
Many threaded bead designs can be finished with bead caps. Sized to match your beads, they are placed on after the last bead is strung and your beading thread is then knotted after the cap is in place. If you happen to be working with a bead, whose size is nearly the same as the whole through the bead cap, simply string a slightly larger bead on right before the bead cap.
Purchased Ends:
Any bead supply catalog will also provide numerous other ways to end your designs. Be sure to use materials that work well together though when choosing ends. Some bead threads, for instance, will easily tear by attaching directly to some clasps.
Non-Traditional Endings:
Have you made a design that goes beyond the ordinary and want just as spectacular a way to end it? One way to finish a large piece could be with a tassel on each end: Large tassels that could be freely looped across each other. Alternatively, attach a large antique button on one end and loop a tassel around it. Bead what I refer to as a scarf on each end. This works well for pieces that close in front. A scarf of beads is a strip of flat beadwork, resembling a scarf, the length being as long as you feel would both look nice, and be long enough to fold over the corresponding scarf on the opposite end.
