How do you determine when nylon, silk, or softflex wire is best for stringing beads?
We string mostly with nylon. It is very durable, strong and pliable and the beads lay very evenly. Silk is used generally when forming knots between beads because it is easier to make and position the knots. While silk is stronger than nylon, it loses that strength when it gets wet. Softflex wire is more appropriate for metal and heavier beads and sharp-edged glass beads that can cut through nylon. Softflex wire also is good for necklaces that you wear all the time, including when you bathe or shower. It is not well suited for stringing seed and other delicate beads, since the wire’s stiffness prevents the beads from laying evenly and can distort the shape of your necklace, bracelet or other jewelry. How does glue help protect my necklaces? Glue is very useful in securing clasps to finished necklaces. Place a double or triple knot around the clasp and cover with a clear adhesive glue — such as crystal cement, “crazy” glue, or in their absence, clear nail polish. This protects the knot
