Altering the clasp on ball chains?

[Former_Member]

Hi everyone! I'm new here and thank you all for your great advice in this forum! :)

I'm new to this and was wondering if anyone could tell me how to add a lobster claw clasp (or any other kind besides the connector) to the ball chains?

Thank you in advance!
Sasha

[MagnoliaAndJoy]

There are some little clam shell looking connector ends that fold over. Riogrande said you should either solder or put a little bit of cement to create a more secure hold. Then jumpring and lobster I assume. Maybe someone else knows the technical name for them but they look like a clam :)

[UniversalAge]

Hi Sasha,
You can also use "crimp end caps". I think that's the easiest; just cut the ball chain, put apropriate crimp ends on both sides, squeeze them to secure and then you can add a lobster clasp or spring ring or any other clasp to the ring on the caps - voila!
Good luck.

[Former_Member]

Thank you!! I'm going to try it as soon as I can and I'll post about my results. :)

[MagnoliaAndJoy]

Ahhh forgot about crimp ends. That would be more secure especially if you aren't soldering

[StampingBlanks]

FYI: I finally hope to have 1.5mm SST ball chains in about 2 weeks :)

[PangaeaDesigns]

Crimp ends do NOT hold for the long-term. Neither do the clamshell bead tips unless they're soldered or glued, like Becky said. I speak from experience having to replace many a chain due to a failed clamshell or crimp end.