Wire wrapped earrings tuorial

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This is a tutorial for wrapping small crystals, beads or pearls onto wire. This technique can be adapted for multiple designs, such as earrings, pendants or bracelets.


Supplies

• 20 gauge wire
• 24 - 26 gauge wire
• hammer
• assorted beads
• wire cutters
• round nosed and flat nosed pliers as needed

Steps
1. Start with your main wire and cut it to the desired length. Form the main structure of your piece.

This will depend on your selected design. For the purpose of this tutorial, I will work with almond-shaped earrings. Hammering the wire will harden it, and depending on what kind of hammer you use, give it a texture.

I found the easiest way to create the almond shapes is to start with a large coil of wire. Wrap it around a round object like a medicine bottle, Then cut it into individual rings.
Use your flat nose pliers to bend them sharply in the middle. Bend them beyond the point where you would like to have them, then pull them apart.
Add swirls or loops at the bottom to attach beads.

  

       

2. Cut a long piece of the thin (24 - 26 gauge) wire. The length depends on how many beads you want to wrap.

3. Start by wrapping a few rounds of the wire around the main wire, then add a bead to the wrapping wire. Bring it down tight against the main wire and wrap a loop to secure it in place. Use your fingers to hold everything snug, so it doesn't move.

 4. Wrap a few more loops around the main wire and add the next bead. Keep the same cadence for an even look. Bead, 3 loops, bead, 3 loops, bead, 3loops ...

5. Continue wrapping around the main wire and not how many loops you are making, if you want your beads evenly spaced.  Cut the wire as close as you can. Use your flat nosed pliers to squash it against the main wire. I usually squash and slightly rotate at the same time. Use your fingers to feel for burs.

Variations
Once you master the basic wrapping technique you can experiment with variations.

I've been published

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I have been designing and making jewelry for about 12 years now and I am thrilled to announce that I have reached a new milestone.

My resin earrings have been published in the spring edition of Belle Armoire Jewelry! 

The amazing editors at Belle Armoire Jewelry have put together a beautifully curated collection of artisan jewelry and I am honored to be among the features. This magazine is full of inspiration for jewelry designers, showcasing different styles and techniques that are sure to please a wide audience.

You can find me on page 52. Capture the Sun

The issue will be on newsstands for the next 3 months. You can pick up your copy at Barnes and Noble or any of the major craft stores.


Ps: Mom I will put one in the mail for you.