Project 106-1
Memory Wire Bracelet

 

 

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Materials

  • Multi-toned gold color stainless steel memory wire
  • Gold Satin 6mm round beads F14-1247MD
  • Gold fire polish 8mm faceted beads F14-4796GB
  • Vermeil Spacer Bead F14-5446MB
  • 8mm Blue satin Druk F14-1353MD
  • Gold Color Headpins F14-1701FN
  • Diagonal round cutter
  • Flat-nose pliers
  • Crimp Pliers

Memory wire has 12 continuous loops and comes in sizes that can be used to create a necklace, bracelet or a ring. It is stainless steel and is very strong. It will hold its shape and conform to your arm or neck.

Instructions

Determine the number of loops you want to use for your project and cut the wire. 6 loops were used for the bracelet.

Stretch the wire gently until it is comfortable on your arm and a little easier to work with.

Determine if you will have a center motif (you would begin the design by taping off the other side and creating a pattern that would be mirrored on the other side. Or simply lay out the design on the board.

Before adding the beads, bend a loop on one end by taking your needle nose pliers and bending the loop toward you (not closing it completely)

Add beads – just like stringing but with no needle. Add beads in the following order and repeat the pattern to the desired length. (See materials list for bead descriptions) #1, #2, #3, #2, #1, #4, #3, #4.

Add a loop on the other end, tightening up the beads to hold in place.

Add a head pin dangle. Add several beads and create a gallery wrap for a finished look.

To create a gallery wrap grasp the wire next to the bead and bend it at a 45º angle. Move the pliers so that one jaw is above the wire and one jaw below it. Bring the wire up and over the top jaw and bend it straight down. Move the pliers and put the bottom jaw in the loop. With your hand, wrap the bent wire around the straight piece laying them side by side and tightening the bead in place. Carefully snip off ay excess wire and make sure it is smooth.

Add the dangle to the loop and gently close the loop.

General Size Guidelines for creating memory wire jewelry

Ring – use up to 4mm beads and 3 loops.

Necklace or choker – 3 loops. Cut the loops and add a clasp.

Bracelet – Lots of possibilities. You can have a centerpiece, add charms or dangles or do single strands and wear them all at the same time.

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