This beautifully handcrafted wire art piece features a vibrant cardinal perched within a circular frame adorned with leaves, branches, and a hanging crystal. Here’s a guide to creating a similar decorative wire sculpture:

This beautifully handcrafted wire art piece features a vibrant cardinal perched within a circular frame adorned with leaves, branches, and a hanging crystal. Here’s a guide to creating a similar decorative wire sculpture:

Materials Needed:

1. Wire:
   • 16-gauge wire for the frame and branches.
   • 24-gauge wire for wrapping and finer details.
   • Colored wire for the cardinal and leaves.
2. Beads and Embellishments:
   • Red and black beads for the cardinal.
   • Green beads or glass for the leaves.
   • Blue or purple beads for berries.
   • A clear faceted crystal for the dangling ornament.
3. Jewelry Tools:
   • Round-nose pliers.
   • Flat-nose pliers.
   • Wire cutters.
   • Mandrel or cylindrical object for shaping the circular frame.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Create the Frame

1. Form the Circle:
   • Use 16-gauge wire to create a circular frame. Secure the ends by wrapping them with thinner wire.
2. Add the Hanging Loop:
   • Shape the top of the frame into a loop for hanging, incorporating swirls for added elegance.

Step 2: Build the Cardinal

1. Form the Body:
   • Use red-colored wire to outline the cardinal’s shape (head, body, wings, and tail).
2. Add Details:
   • Wrap beads or small stones onto the body to create a vibrant, textured look.
   • Use black wire or beads for the cardinal’s face and eye.
3. Attach the Legs:
   • Shape the legs and feet with thin wire, securing them to a branch.

Step 3: Decorate the Branches

1. Create the Branches:
   • Use 16-gauge wire to form branches extending within the frame.
   • Wrap the branches with 24-gauge wire for texture and stability.
2. Add Leaves and Berries:
   • Use green beads for leaves and attach them to the branches with thin wire.
   • Cluster blue or purple beads for berries.

Step 4: Add the Hanging Crystal

1. Prepare the Crystal:
   • Attach the faceted crystal to a wire loop and secure it with decorative wrapping.
2. Attach to the Frame:
   • Hang the crystal from the bottom center of the circular frame.

Step 5: Final Assembly

1. Secure All Elements:
   • Ensure all components (cardinal, branches, leaves, and crystal) are securely attached to the frame.
2. Adjust the Shape:
   • Fine-tune the design for symmetry and balance.
3. Polish and Display:
   • Clean the wire to remove any tarnish and hang your artwork in a well-lit space.