I have worked, reworked, and reworked(argh!!!) and absolutely cannot get the rivoli to fit in the bezel created per the instructions!  I am using Delicas (instructions said "Japanese cylinder beads) so I assume the size should be standard.  Is there another "Japanese cylinder bead" that is slightly larger in size?  The bezel I'm creating seems too small. 

 This is the first time I'm attempting to capture a stone/bead in a bezel like this so it's possible I'm doing something wrong or am not aware of some "tricks" to get this to work.

Any help would be VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!  I have purchased all the supplies and would very much like to finish this beautiful necklace.  Thank you.

 

I'm sorry to hear you're having trouble with the project. I double checked my piece, and I did use 36 cylinder beads for the first two rows of the bezel, and so did Jessica. We both used Delicas. Here are a few things you can try or check to get your bezels to fit properly: - Is your rivoli 18 mm? If it's a different size, you can still make it work (see below). - Are you placing your rivoli in the bezel after the first half is stitched? It will need to stretch slightly to fit, but you should be able to sit your rivoli in the cup, and those first two rows of cylinders will sit just at the edge. - Are you using nylon thread or Fireline? I used KO thread for mine, and perhaps the little bit of stretch in the thread (vs. Fireline) means that I was able to stretch the bezel to fit. - Have you tried adding or subtracting two cylinders from those initial two rows? As long as you make sure you have an even number, you can still stitch a bezel following the instructions (just make sure you use the same number of beads each time you start a new bezel). When you have the initial ring (the first two rounds) on the thread, you should be able to wrap the beads tightly around the edge of the rivoli. If the ring of beads is too large or too small, add or subtract beads in pairs. You may want to adjust where you start your fringe accordingly. I hope this helps!

Thank you so much for your help.  Since I'm an impatient person I ended up contacting Jessica directly.  She advised that the pattern with 36 cylinder beads was actually meant for a 14mm rivoli.  After hearing that, I knew I needed to increase the number of beads to fit my 18mm.  I increased to 44 and that seemed to solve my problem.

 I really appreciate your help.  I'm almost ready to begin the rope for this necklace.  I think it will be beautiful!