How To Use Flat Memory Wire In Jewellery Designs
• Kerri
Memory wire is a great material to work with and enables you to create such a variety of jewellery pieces. The newest addition to our memory wire range is the ‘Flat Plate’ wire; a wire that behaves the same as standard memory wires, but with a flat finish as opposed to the traditional round design.
Beadalon Flat Memory Wire - Silver Plated
£2.99
The concept is exactly the same as the normal memory wire and the ends are still finished with a loop, yet the effect resembles that of hammered wire; flat, tidy and flush. The instructions on the packet recommend the use of bail making pliers to finish the ends; using a 3&5mm will allow you to create a smaller loop, but round nose Pliers seem to do the job just as well.
Different designs with Flat Memory Wire.
The first design has 3 coils with 26 gauge Vintage bronze craft wire wrapped around the memory wire.
To incorporate beads into the design simply thread beads onto the craft wire. Keep the beads closely pushed together and wrap the wire around once or twice to secure. Repeat this to create your design.
Use the Nylon Jaw pliers to straighten out the wire or alternatively bind your flat nose with electrical tape (this technique works fine with thinner wire, but for thicker gauge wire, Nylon Jaw pliers are a must)
Second Technique Design
Cut two separate coils of memory wire, make a loop at both ends of each coil then wrap the wire around each coils. This design was completed using 26 gauge antique copper.
Bind the two coils together using vintage bronze 26 gauge, leave a gap and start to thread your beads, (this does take a bit of time but the results are worth it). Use different colours of wire to give your bracelets a tribal feel.
Third Design Idea
Using one individual coil will create delicate little bracelets. This effect would work perfectly should you wish to convert them into ear rings. Gold plated flat memory wire was used for this project.
Adding jump rings and ear wires will create stunning ear rings.
Multiple bracelets worn together look great with any outfit. Try using bold colours of Swarovski crystals to complement the different colours of craft wire.
Flat memory wire it is so versatile, the possibilities of different designs are endless. For anyone new to working with craft wire, these are great introductory projects, the only problem is, you will be addicted!
Emily Kersh
In House Designer