> >..but some times you > > have to grab the hook just behind where the barb would be and bring it > > towards the bend, let the bead slide on and then bring it back into > > position.
I do this sometimes, but with two things of note: I use rounded / "jewelers" pliers to bend the hook, so as not to cause a nick in the wire; and I heat the hook after the second bending, in an attempt to "reanneal" the metal. (Can't for the life of me think of what this process is called...) Depending on the wire used, you may need a high heat source, but for my hooks size 16 and smaller, a lighter (for 2 minutes or so) works just fine. Obviously, I do this before thread or anything else is added... though it would make for a great FIREfly pattern... Tight wraps, Pete
