Clasp Versus Elastic

As a customer or as a jewelry designer we both have the same problem with our bracelets...
the perfect fit.
Measuring the wrist is the only method to acquire the desired fitting.
Connecting the ends with a clasp versus elastic is the next problem for either a practical or a decorative professional finish.
The customer wants to purchase a particular bracelet but it is either too small or too big.
You the jewelry artist will need to make several different sizes and in different colors.
Advantages include several sales may be made because more is available.
The disadvantage is if you design one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces then you have tarnished your reputation.
Other materials have been invented to help solve the sizing problem.
The newest on the market is stretch elastic.
It sounds great; however, we have had these negative experiences:

1. Strength for longevity is minimized
2. The customer accuses us of poor workmanship and poor quality
3. Loss of customers
4. The bracelet needs to be undone and re-threaded.
   It cannot be repaired.
   
5. Sharp edges of the beads will cut the cord
6. Sharp edges of clasps will cut connecting cords
7. Stretch nylon will not always hold its knots
8. The elastic cord becomes too stretchy after a period of time causing the beads to separate or break free
9. The wearer needs to be advised of how to wear and maintain the bracelet
10. Short life

Ideas for "One Size Fits All" Bracelets

1. Leather, hemp, waxed cotton cord, ribbon, metal, and other no stretch materials
2. C-shaped cuff bracelets
3. Memory wire bracelets
4. Adjustable closure clasp bracelets such as a lobster clasp
5. Chain extensions
6. Design your own closures

Beads:

1. Evaluate the types of beads you are using
2. Use a magnifying glass to view the interior of the beads and select those which are rounded and smooth.
   
3. Select larger types of beads; less chance of stress on the stretchy cord
4. Design for children only
5. Design for special holiday use
6. Inform customer of short life
7. Policy and pricing for restringing

It may sound terrible to tell the customer the negative side of the stretchy wearable, however, if the bracelet or ring should fail, they will be prepared to enjoy their trinket for a short time or choose to have it re-threaded.
Be reasonable in pricing the re-stringing of the stretchy cord jewelry.
There are many reasons for wearing stretchy jewelry:

1. Comfort
2. Metal allergies
3. Cost
4. Excellent fitting
5. Easy on and off for those with arthritis or other handicaps

Stretchy thread choices:

1. Gel-spun polyethylene
2. Braided bead thread
3. Rubber cord covered with polyester thread

For added durability:

1. Do multiple stringing
2. Stretch the cord before stringing to avoid excess stretching
3. Reinforce strength with several knots

Ask the customer why they are attracted to that particular bracelet.
It may open the way to making a bracelet using traditional methods.
Or offer alternatives like a broach, a pendant or a pair of earrings which may be a better solution especially if their purchase is for a gift.
Offering these alternatives for a bracelet will eliminate concern for the correct bracelet size.
Clasps versus elastic extenders:

1. Lobster claw - most popular
2. Magnetic clasp - easy on and off
3. Metal rings and chain extenders
4. Looped elastic

I enjoy making my own clasps and extenders.
Since I do bead weaving I cannot always find the necessary fasteners for my designs.
Allow your talents to also design closures and other clasps.
The risk of sharp metal edges cutting the stretch cord demands creativity to solve the problem.
You may choose to make elastic loops which will encircle a holding bead or two and re-thread several times for reinforcement.
Why consider clasps and extenders? Often times the jewelry project will not appear professionally finished unless there is a clasp for joining the ends.