Put a drop of super glue on the knot.

It’s important to use the right tool and the right crimps. We recommend the sterling silver and the gold-filled crimp tubes for the best results. A specialized bead crimping tool is the best to use.

Here is a link from our Learning Center on how to use a crimp tool:

http://www.artbeads.com/howtousecrto.html

For more information about this question please visit our blog:

http://blog.artbeads.com/category/ask-bailey-beader

There are no special techniques for knotting different hole sizes however you could consider using bead caps which may be used to cover up part of your bead due to an imperfection, or a larger hole. Oftentimes, the bead cap is used to "dress up" a bead, crystal, stone, or other type of bead adding a touch of elegance to your bead.  To view our selection of bead caps, please follow the link below:
http://www.artbeads.com/silver-components-bead-caps.html

I generally use 28 gauge as this is the easiest for me to work. But, I have used other gauges, depending on the project. It takes a little more effort to crochet using something heavier, but it can be done. I did a cuff bracelet and a pendant using 26 gauge and they turned out fine, but you don't have as much control over the wire.

If crimped properly, the crimp bead should hold just fine. You do not need to add any glue. If you not already doing so, you may want to consider using the Clam Shell Bead Tip with 2 Rings for extra security regarding the clamshell loops. The two rings are soldered shut and cannot accidentally be opened when yanked on or snagged. You can find this bead tip via the following link:

http://www.artbeads.com/ss-bdtip3.html

Since a ring will not fit through the chain links, you can use a crimp end at each end of the necklace, such as the Sterling Silver 1.2mm Fancy Crimp End (http://www.artbeads.com/ss-crend01.html). You will need to measure the width of your chain to make sure that the hole will accommodate the chain size. You will then thread the chain into the tube, making sure that the loop at the top is not blocked, and will use a pair of chain nose pliers to flatten the middle section of the tube. You can attach your clasp to the loop on the crimp end with an open jump ring.

To use the 1-Hour Two-Part Epoxy, you will mix an adequate amount of both cartridges together prior to applying. The epoxy will be relatively thick, and you can apply the epoxy with a small plastic knife or clean popsicle stick. If you are applying the epoxy to a small surface, we would recommend applying the epoxy with a toothpick for more accurate detail work. The epoxy does recommend letting the items sit for 24 hours before being completely cured. Please allow ample time to cure.

Closed jump rings are used when you do not need the ring to open. You would use an open jump ring when you will need the ring to open so that you can attach something to the ring. For instance, you would use an open jump ring to hang a charm or pendant, or to attach the last link of a chain to the clasp.

Put some aluminum foil in your sink. Place your silver piece on top of it. Heat some water and put baking soda in it. About one cup per gallon of water. You probably don't need that much so cut down the amount of baking soda proportionate to the amount of water you are using. You can always add baking soda if needed. Pour the hot water over the silver. The tarnish will convert back to silver. If it is a heavily tarnished piece a couple of treatments may be necessary. Use tongs to turn the silver piece to make sure all of the silver is in contact at some point with the foil. Some also suggest adding salt to the water. This method beats polishing by hand any day. It also works for copper and many other metals.

We have a picture tutorial on how to knot using knotting tweezers in our Learning Center. You can find this tutorial via the following link:

http://www.artbeads.com/step1.html