Basic wire ring tutorial

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Here is a basic wire ring tutorial that does not require a lot of tools. It is targeted at beginning jewelry makers, with easy to follow instructions. BUT! as with everything you learn, your first few attempts will probably involve some struggle. Just keep practicing and you'll get better.


Materials

·         A ring base, dry erase marker, tube of glue, etc. It needs to be thicker than your finger!
·         About 15 inches of art wire
·         Bead of your choice
·         Flush cutters
·         Flat nose pliers 

Instructions

1.       String the bead on the wire and place it in approximately the center. Pinch the wire down on either side of the bead.

2.    Place the bead on your base, hold it down and wrap each end of the wire around the base. Go past the bead on each side. Remember not to cross the wires. Tighten the wire as much as you can. 

3.       Hold the wire tightly with your finger and snugly bend it around each side of your bead, in opposite directions. You want to start forming a circle around your bead.

4.       Wrap your bead several times with each end of the wire. Finish with each wire end on opposite sides of the bead.  You should have at least 2 - 3 inches of wire left on each side.

 5.  Slide the ring off the base and wrap the wire ends around the ring on each side to secure the shape. This will bring your ring wires together and form them into a solid base. 

 6.       Flush cut the wire and flatten the end against the ring to eliminate the burr and sharp edges. Don't cut the wire on the inside of the ring, or it may end up scratching your skin. Try to cut at the top or side. Use your flat nose pliers to "squish" the cut edge down.

Yay! You're done!

Play around with variations

1.       Use smaller wire and wrap it multiple times

2.       Use smaller beads

3.       Wrap your bead a lot, or just once

4.       Try different shapes of beads

5.       Wrap your ring base all the way around

6.       Try different colors of wire