How to make chaplets
The technique for stinging a chaplet is the same as for stinging a rosary, except that there are fewer beads and components to work with.
- Working directly off a spool of Soft Flex, first string on two "ender beads": one tube bead and a crimp bead.
- String on three spacer beads: one seed bead (11*) one slightly larger bead, and one seed bead.
- Add one Ave bead. Bead caps are optional.
- Repeat steps 2 - 3 (follow the diagram) until you have strung on 10 Ave beads, each separated by three spacer beads.
- String on a crimp bead and a tube bead. Bring the beading wire through the hook or hole at the top of the crucifix or pendant and then back down through the tube bead and the crimp bead. Press the crimp bead down firmly with crimping pliers. Run the remaining few inches of beading wire back through the beads previously strung, and snip off any excess wire with beading wire cutters.
- Return to the spool end, and allow for enough wire to work any changes in the design including your ender beads and 3" of leader wire. Cut the chaplet from the spool.
- Replace any unwanted beads, and then run your ringers down the strand to remove any spaces created by tight-fitting beads. Thread the wire through the hook or hole at the top of the crucifix or pendant, and then back down through the tube bead and the crimp bead. Do not press the crimp bead yet.
- Lay the chaplet on your tabletop and look it over, ensuring that each side matches and there are no missing beads. Check for twisting by holding the chaplet up. When satisfied, press the crimp beads with crimping pliers, run the remaining few inches of beading wire back through the previously strung beads, and trim off any excess wire.