[Jewelry making - Article 00017] - Re: [Orchid] To knot beads, or not to knot beads?

[margery epstein]

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>   Is there a Mohs hardness level above which you don't have to knot
>   and below which one should ALWAYS knot?

    Mohs shmohs 

    I've posted on this subject ad nauseum, but I don't mind repeating
    myself : Knotting  is the proper way to assemble beads of any
    material, the exceptions have only to do with the relative size
    (extremely small beads can be ganged in runs of 2,3,4, etc.) or
    specific shape (heishi, small rondels, e.g.). Knotting makes the
    strand more supple and consistent, it drapes better; knotting secures
    each bead against scattering if the strand does break, and provides a
     cushion between beads against abrasion. And dirt and body scum tends
    to collect less. It's more time consuming, and, therefore, much more
    costly for the finished product, so it depends on the impression you
    want to make, and  the quality of the work you want to put your name
    to: For a good, professional finish, there are no shortcuts., IMO,
    and that includes the (legitimate) jewelry process of beading. 

    If you don't want to do it yourself, pay a skilled stringer to do
    it. 

    From a producer of knotted bead jewelry ART for 23 years (who's
    admittedly a bit testy from following the "amaze yourself" thread...)

margery epstein 
http://www.storyjewels.com

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