| Memory wire is great to work with because its a
one-size-fits-all medium. After it is worn a few times it conforms to your
size and remembers, so it fits comfortable and securely. It is great for
people who have difficulty with clasps. It is inexpensive and doesn't
require findings. A great medium for any beader! For bracelets I usually cut off 3 loops, for a necklace
one and for a ring you can use one or more.
You will need heavy duty wire cutter or
memory wire
sheers to cut your memory wire. It can difficult to cut with regular wire
cutters but can be done. Do NOT cut memory wire with the cutters you use
for your beading or craft wire, it will nick the blades and render them
useless!! You should wear eye protection when cutting off small pieces of
memory wire, as it tends to fly when cut.
You will need round nose pliers to make the loops in
the ends or if you wish you can use 1/2 drilled beads for endings instead.
We recommend using epoxy to attach 1/2 drilled beads to your memory wire.
First cut your memory wire. Then turn a loop in
one end using round nose pliers, or glue your 1/2 drilled bead to one
end. Load your beads on and trim off the excess at the end.
You then turn a loop in the other end, or glue your other 1/2 drilled bead, to
finish the piece. If you have trouble turning the loops in your
memory wire, try heating the end with a lighter for a few seconds, since it is a
tempered material, heat makes it a bit more flexible. Be careful not to
over heat it though!
It's that simple!
I sometimes hang charms or a beaded dangle headpin from the loops to add a
little extra touch. You can also hang charms and beaded headpin dangles
throughout the piece. |
