HOW TO: Thread Wrapping

Thread Wrapping Is an ancient jewelry making technique that dates back to about 5000 years ago.    It is unclear as to the original origin of this technique but it is thought that it was first used to finish off the neck of tassels and then later adapted to either add color to a piece, tie two cords together or possibly keep secure beads in place.

Today, the technique of thread wrapping is almost common place in the cord and jewelry world and it is such a versatile technique that it can be used for almost anything… to add color to your work.. to keep beads from moving… to wrap cords together… to make tassels… to use as a sliding clasp.. and to hide transitions in your work..

HINTS

Finishing the Thread Wrap

• There are two ways to finish off a thread wrap.  1)  The first is to pull the knot into and underneath the wrap and clip and seal the ends.  2)  The second is shown below in our video.. which is to simply seal the ends (similar to the square knot sliding clasp) but don't pull the knot underneath the wrap.  Both techniques work well and although glue is not needed, you can use a dap of GS Hypo-Cement if you would like.  

Sliding Clasp

• If you are using the thread wrap as a sliding clasp, the second method of finishing the  thread wrap is the one to use.  If you pull the knot under the thread wrap the sliding of the clasp will cause it to become undone.

Working with Larger Cords.. 0.8MM/1MM and larger

• When using larger cords and ending by pulling the knot underneath the thread wrap there is actually a front and back to your thread wrap.  The back is the bumpy side where you pulled the knot underneath.  The front side is the smooth finish.  

VIDEO