DIY Network

Sterling Silver Wire Bangle From "Jewelry Making" episode DJMK-104

A close-up of the completed design.

Wire wrapped jewelry is less expensive than casting silver or gold, and often creates a work of art that is more unique. Here, Connie Fox shares her wrapping technique with host Jackie Guerra.

Materials:

12" of 12-gauge sterling silver round wire, dead soft
36" of 20-gauge sterling silver twisted wire
2-1/2"of 14-gauge sterling silver round wire, dead soft
Focal bead (hole large enough to accommodate 12-gauge wire)
Assorted beads for accents (hole large enough to accommodate 12-gauge wire)
Sterling silver spacers (hole large enough to accommodate 12-gauge wire)
Wire cutters that will cut 12-gauge wire
Long round nose pliers
Chain nose pliers
Tape measure
Planishing or ball pein hammer
Steel bench block or anvil

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Connie's Tip: Before getting seriously into jewelry making or wire wrapping, invest in the best tools you can afford. This will eliminate frustration later.

1. For a 6-inch wrist, measure 9 inches of 12-gauge wire. Add a half-inch of wire for every added half-inch of wrist size.

2. Coil 20-gauge twisted wire onto 12-gauge wire. Remove coil.

3. Place focal bead, sections of coiling, accent beads and spacers onto 12-gauge wire. Curve the bangle to wrist shape.

4. Place on wrist. Allow 1-1/2 inches from one end of the bangle to the other in order to achieve a good fit (figure A). Note: adding or subtracting items from the bangle may be necessary to get the 1-1/2 inches.

5. With the round nose pliers, make an eye in one end. With chain nose pliers, make a bend at joint. Allow approximately 7/8 inch on the opposite end. Cut excess 12-gauge wire. Make second eye with round nose pliers and bend with chain nose pliers.

6. To form a clasp (figure B), cut a 2-½ inch piece of 14 gauge wire. Hammer one end and form a small hoop. Create a larger loop in the opposite end. Your clasp should be able to lay flat on the table) Open the larger loop and attach to one eye of the bangle. Close loop.

GUESTS :

Connie Fox
Owner
Jajatyu
San Diego, CA
Phone: 619-293-3007
E-mail: cfox@san.rr.com
Web site: www.ConnieFox.com