Would one of you beading pro's please relay the correct usage of crimping pliers.  I have one set of instruction advising to use the little crescent shape nearest the handle first and then the other rounder shape near the plier tip and I have a magazine article instructing the exact opposite.  I have tried both ways and my crimp tube is just rough and squashy looking!  I asked for help at Michaels Craft Store but could not get a demo, just reference to package instruction. Is this crimping thing only perfected with lots of practice? I have damaged two necklaces already, breaking the beads nearest the crimping tube and would really appreciate any seasoned advice.

 I have always used the crescent first then the rounded(first direction you gave). I don't use crimp tubes, instead I use the crimp beads. I have about four different sizes  of crimps to go with the size wire I use. Then I cover them with crimp covers... just makes it a bit neater.

Thank you Georgia!  I am a solitary beader so it is comforting to connect with other bead lovers.  This forum is a real bonus for me.

The way I learned is three steps:  Start on the outside of the tool.  The first step flattens the crimp.  The second step (on the inside of the tool) "crimps" it and the last step (the outside again) folds the crimp in half.  It did take me awhile to get a good crimp.  Maybe practice on junk wire a few times.  Don't worry, you'll get it.

Laura

I totally agree with Laura, practice first. My first crimps looks like car wrecks, and I had a hard time getting it. Also, make sure you have a good crimping tool. The first one I had was cheap,and it was a piece of junk, then I got a bit more expensive one (not really expensive though) and that one worked a lot better, so do check you pliers and see that it is doing what you need correctly. Good luck. You will get the hang of it, hey...if I did, anyone can!!!

Linda

It takes a while to master crimping.  A good set of crimping pliers is a must.  Two pieces of advice I have for you are things I have learned through trial and error.  First, if my crimp isn't 3mm long, I always use two.  I feel that it just makes my pieces sturdier and stronger.   Second,  I've recently decided that the best crimps to buy are the tornado style.  For some reason they seem so much better and stronger than any other style (IMO).  I strongly believe that if you use the best  quality materials that you can, and you go that extra mile when constructing your pieces, you'll earn a good reputation in the jewelry world and they will come back to you again and again.

Laura