How to Make Beaded Crosses With Separate Wire and Beads
A cross made with beads and wire can be an attractive pendant for a necklace or can be hung on your wall as a decoration. A beaded cross can be made in any size you desire using a few simple jewelry making tools, as well as your favorite color or colors of beads. Margot Potter, author of "Bead And Wire Jewelry Exposed," suggests choosing colors that make a bold statement and that allow you to create a bead and wire project that shows off your personality and individual style. Keep it for yourself or give it as special gift that is sure to be treasured.
Instructions
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1
Cut two lengths of Bendalon beading wire, depending on how large you want your cross to be. Cut one piece slightly larger than the other to form the cross shape.
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2
Place a bead on the end of one piece of wire.
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3
Wrap the wire through and around the bead using your round-nose pliers. Tuck the end around the bead. This will keep your bead from falling off the wire. Trim any excess wire with your wire cutters.
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4
String beads along the most of the remaining length of wire.
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5
Stop threading beads about one-half to one-quarter from the end of the wire.
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6
Wrap the end of the wire around the bead and twist it several times to prevent the beads from falling off. Trim any excess wire with your wire cutters.
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7
Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for your other piece of wire.
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8
Place the shorter beaded wire on top of the longer beaded wire to form a cross shape.
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9
Make an "x" shape with the short wire behind the cross by pulling the ends behind the longer piece of wire.
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10
Pull the shorter piece back around toward the front to form a cross shape.
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11
Reshape your wire so the pieces are straight.
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Tips & Warnings
Alternate two or three colors of beads to create a colorful cross. Use two shapes or sizes of beads for a unique look.
Choose a diameter of Bendalon wire that is slightly smaller than the beads you plan to use.
Crystallized beads are available in many shapes, sizes and colors and will add sparkle to your project.
Be careful using wire cutters. They are sharp and can cause injury if used improperly.
References
- Bead and Wire Jewelry Exposed; Margot Potter, et al.
- 1001 Beads: Create and Embellish Using Beading and Wirework Technique; Irène Lassus and Marie-Anne Voituriez
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
