Project 1003-2
 
 

Beading Lesson – Making Decorative Wire-Wrapped Links
Designed by Katie Hacker
Sponsored by Beadalon

For tools and supplies visit:



www.beadalon.com

It's easy to create your own bead links and beaded charms using wire and beads. Connect bead links together to form a bracelet or necklace or create beaded charms to make quick and easy earrings.

Most beginners start with copper wire because it’s inexpensive and easy to bend. ColourCraft™ wire is permanently color coated, which adds a colorful, coordinated look to your wire-wrapped jewelry.

German-style wire is copper wire that’s specially plated and hardened to give the appearance of sterling wire without the cost. It looks and feels like sterling wire, which is great for people who appreciate the color and texture of sterling but are looking for an alternative. Both of these types of wire are measured in gauges. As the number gets bigger, the wire gauge gets smaller. For example, 20-gauge is larger than 26-gauge.

To make a simple wrapped bead link, cut a 3" piece of wire. Make a 90 degree angle about 1" from one end of the wire. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end and wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop. String a bead onto the wire and make another loop. Use chain nose pliers to hold the loop as you use your fingers to wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop.

To make a decorative bead link, cut a piece of wire that's 4" long. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end and wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop. String a bead onto the wire and make another loop. Wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop and downward around the bead. You can also make a little cap on the bead by spiraling the wire around the stem.

You can use the same technique to make simple beaded charms. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end of a wire, and then hold the loop between your thumb and forefinger. Turn your wrist to make a spiral. Bend the end in a right angle and string a bead onto the wire. Make a loop above the bead and wrap any extra wire around the bead for extra decoration.

Links:
German-style Wire
http://www.beadalon.com/GermanStylePlatedWire.asp

ColourCraft® Wire
http://www.beadalon.com/ColourCraft.asp

Round-nose pliers, Chain-nose pliers, wire cutters
http://www.beadalon.com/tools.asp

For more ideas and inspiration visit: http://www.katiehacker.com/index.htm

 

Guest:

Katie Hacker


 
Copyright © 2009 Beads Baubles and Jewels, All Rights Reserved