DIY Network

Beaded Wire Bracelet This beautiful beaded bracelet looks a lot harder to make than it really is. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-222

Forget yarn: for this project Naomi Ramos, of Three on a Swatch, and host Allison Whitlock are crocheting with strings of beads on colored wire.

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Beaded Wire Bracelet

Materials:

1 spool artistic wire in purple or violet, 30 gauge (or any gauge from 28 to 32)
3/4"-1" amethyst-color bead chips (approximately 70 beads)
1 tube size-6 beads, #574 B (lavender colored) (approximately 140 beads)
steel crochet hook, US size 5/1.90 mm
12mm filigree clasp (gauge doesn't matter for this project)
Dritz Fray Check liquid seam sealant or clear nail polish
scissors

Note: Bead chips may be purchased from craft stores in prestrung strands; simply untie the strand and remove the chips for use in this project.

Figure A

1. String beads onto the wire, beginning with an amethyst chip (or a large bead) and adding 2 small beads. Continue in this pattern until all beads are strung. End with a large amethyst chip (figure A).

2. Attach the wire to the hook with a slipknot, leaving a 6" tail.

3. Ch 1 bead into each st (1 large, then 2 small beads); continue in this pattern to reach desired length, ending with a large bead.

• For a 7" (circumference) wrist, make a chain approximately 25" long.
  
• For an 8" wrist, make a chain approximately 27" long.
  
• For a 9" wrist, make a chain approximately 29" long.

4. Test the fit. First lay the bracelet down on the work surface and bend it into thirds; each third should be the same length. Twist the bracelet so all three strands are twisted. Drape the bracelet around your wrist to make sure it's the right size. Remember that the clasp is about 1⁄2 " long, so 1⁄2" will be added to the final length. If the bracelet is too large, unfold it and remove some beads. If it's too small, unfold it and add beads.

5. Once you're satisfied with the length, cut the wire, leaving a 6" tail. Pull the wire through the final chain to seal the beads onto it.

6. Fold the bracelet into thirds again. Pull the wire tail at each end through the folded part of the bracelet so that when you twist the tail, all three lengths twist.

7. Holding one tail in each hand, twist the wire (one hand forward, one hand back) until the bracelet looks chunky. Attach the ends of the clasp to the ends of the bracelet, threading the wire tails through the clasp attachment point several times. Weave the remaining wire through the bracelet for a few inches and then cut. Weave in any remaining ends.

Tip: Put a dab of seam sealant or clear nail polish on any sharp wire ends.

RESOURCES :

Dritz Fray Check (Model #: 674)
No fray seam sealant
Prym Consumer USA Inc.
PO Box 5028
Spartanburg, SC 29304-5028
Toll-free Phone: 800-255-7796
Website: www.dritz.com

GUESTS :

Naomi Ramos
E-mail: Naomi.Ramos@comcast.net