"Memory Wire" is a relatively hard steel wire that has been coiled into rings of a particular size -- the size of rings, bracelets, or necklaces/chokers. It is a very easy material to use and offers a lot of variety when you get creative with it. On this How-To page we're going to cover two basic beading examples using Memory Wire for bracelets and necklaces: the Basic Bracelet, and the Floating Bead Choker.
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The Basic Bracelet
This shows the most basic way to use Bracelet Memory Wire.
1. First, decide the number of "rings" you'd like for your piece, or how many times you want the bracelet to wrap around the wrist and cut the wire to your desired length. We recommend that you use at least 1-1/2 rings for a basic bracelet so it is assured to stay on regardless of the wrist size. Some designs use three or four rings for a more dramatic look.
A
B
C
2. Then, using needlenose or roundnose pliers, simply turn the end into a small loop. (A)
TIP: It's best to turn the loop away from the skin; that is, in the opposite of the curve of the wire. It will be more comfortable to wear this way.
3. Add beads to the wire in any design you can imagine, leaving about a 1/4" of wire at the end.
4. Repeat Step 2 at the end of the wire to finish your bracelet. (B)
5. To make the end(s) a little more decorative, you could hang
a charm or a headpin stacked with beads to the end loops to create a dangling accent. (C)
2. With needlenose pliers, squish or crimp down on the crimp beads, taking care that your center bead(s) remain squarely in the center of your necklace. The crimp beads should hold the center bead(s) in place. (B)
TIP: Usually, when you use crimp beads on a thick wire like memory wire, you have to be very diligent in making it stay in place. Pay close attention to how well the bead is crimped.
3. Add a crimp bead to one side, the another bead(s), and another crimp bead. Holding the beads in the place where you would like them to lay, squish the crimp beads as in step two. Repeat on the other side of your necklace, and as often as your design requires. (C)
4. When you are done adding beads and ready to finish the ends, add one more crimp and a small bead. Using needlenose or roundnose pliers, turn the end of the wire into a small loop, as you did in the bracelet above. Then slide the small bead and crimp up to the loop, and secure the small bead into place by crimping the crimp bead next to it. (D) Repeat on the other side and you are done! (E) Add a decorative charm (see step 5 of the bracelet instructions) for added effect.
