This is a beautifully crafted wire-wrapped bracelet featuring copper wire and glass beads. Here’s a guide on how to create a similar design:
Materials:
- Wire:
- 20-gauge copper wire for the base structure
- 26-gauge copper wire for detailed weaving
- Dead soft or half-hard wire recommended
- Beads:
- 2 lampwork glass beads with swirl patterns (approximately 15-18mm)
- Turquoise blue with cream swirl design
- Tools:
- Wire cutters
- Round-nose pliers
- Flat-nose pliers
- Nylon-jaw pliers (to avoid marring wire)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Optional:
- Wire straightener
- Polishing cloth
- Work surface pad
Steps:
- Create the Base Structure:
- Cut four 8-inch lengths of 20-gauge wire for the main framework
- Straighten the wire using nylon pliers or a wire straightener
- Form two parallel sets of wires for each side
- Prepare the Bead Settings:
- Create two oval-shaped frames using two wires each
- Size the frames to fit your lampwork beads
- Leave enough wire on each end for the bracelet bands
- Set the Beads:
- Place each bead in its wire frame
- Secure with crossing wires at top and bottom
- Use 26-gauge wire to weave around the frame, securing the bead
- Create the Decorative Elements:
- Add spiral wraps at each end of the bead settings
- Form decorative loops and curves with remaining wire
- Weave thin gauge wire for additional texture
- Form the Bracelet Band:
- Bundle remaining wires into two strands on each side
- Create uniform twists along the length
- Form matching decorative ends
- Make the Clasps:
- Create hook-and-eye closures using remaining wire
- Form small spirals at the terminal ends
- Ensure clasps are secure and smooth
- Final Touches:
- Check all connections are tight
- Smooth any sharp ends
- Polish copper if desired
- Shape for comfortable fit around wrist
Would you like me to elaborate on any of these steps or provide additional details about specific techniques used in this design?
