DIY Network

Wire Wrapped Choker by Mary Thomas From "Jewelry Making" episode DJMK-501

In this third segment of "All Choked Up," guest jewelry designer Mary Thomas, owner of Etui Design, joins host Jackie Guerra to inspire you with her twisted and braided wire and bead choker made of precious pearls and labadorite, a breath-taking combination.

Experience Level: Beginner

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Host Jackie Guerra's guest, Mary Thomas, creates this lovely pearl and laboradite choker.

Materials --

24-gauge silver wire plated or sterling, cut 30"
2 sterling or plated 4-5mm jump rings
Beads of choice
Sterling or plated clasp (may use multi-strand or single)

Tools --

Flat board approximately 9" x 15 with three 2" nails at top of board
Wire cutters
Round nose jewelry pliers
Flat nose jewelry pliers

Wire Wrapped Choker

1. Begin by wrapping each of the 30" wires around the nails at the top of the board (figure A).

2. Braid the three wires together (just like you braid hair) five or six times (figure B).

3. Once the wire is in place, you may begin to add beads to the wire one at a time (figure C). As you add a bead, wrap the wire around and then continue adding beads and wrapping similar to braiding; however, you may wrap and add beads as you please.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

4. Continue until you have come to the desired length if you making a choker approximately 14-15" long. After you have added all the beads you want, braid the ends five or six times just like you started.

5. Once completed you may remove the wire, take all three pieces using your round nose jewelry pliers and wrap a loop with the wire. Take the end of the loose wire and wrap around the wire (figure D) and continue to the other side. Clip the loose wire.

6. Add a jump ring at either end.

7. Take your clasp and add to a jump ring on both sides (figure E).

8. Using this technique you can create lovely chokers (figure F) using a variety of pearls and stones of your choice.

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

GUESTS :

Mary Thomas
Owner/Jewelry Designer
Etui Designs
We apologize no contact information is available.