How To Make Your Own Jewellery Findings with Craft Wire

Up until recently I didn’t have much knowledge of craft wire. It’s one of those products that, if not used regularly, you can shy away from altogether.

In my day to day jewellery making I tend to only use craft wire for making connectors between beads or for wrapping stones, but to my pleasant surprise, there are no end to the possibilities of craft wire.

When I’m struggling with ideas, I like to browse the internet for inspiration and get my creative juices flowing.  There is such a broad spectrum of diverse jewellery that can be made with craft wire, ranging from basic findings techniques, crochet and some fantastic wrapping and twisting techniques. The only thing restricting you is your imagination!

I decided to focus on the findings side of things as making your own instantly adds a ‘hand forged’ personal touch to your jewellery.

Wire Style 2 with Bonus DVD – Denise Peck
£16.99

I found the book ‘Wire Style 2’ by Denise Peck particularly inspiring. It is full of ideas ranging from simple projects through to the complicated techniques. Whatever project you decide on there are step by step instructions to follow.

I have to admit that in the past I have been scared of using craft wire because of the fact that it is so malleable. After taking some time to research craft wire I have come to realise there are two products that I cannot live without.

The first is a Beadsmith Ball Pein Jewellery Hammer and the second is a Beadsmith Bench Block. Any findings that you make, whether it be earrings, findings or fastenings; simply hammer the wire after you have shaped it and it will instantly harden. This makes the piece of jewellery more hard wearing and durable.

To make this necklace I have used 20 gauge wires to form the connectors; hammering them for extra strength. Although I have added beads onto the connectors this necklace is a perfect example of how a piece of jewellery can be made entirely from craft wire.

I used 24 gauge wire to make the earring findings and 20 gauge wire for the fastenings. Again hammering them afterwards to strengthen them. Wrapping extra wire (24 gauge) around the findings adds extra detail and makes it stand out more.

Once you have mastered a few techniques and you start to feel more confident using craft wire you can start to adapt pieces to suit you and add your own flare.

To get started making your own craft wire findings you will need:

Fran Perry
In House Designer

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