How to Make Woven Wire Jewelry

Woven wire jewelry looks beautiful and can be fashionable as well as antique in appearance. What is wonderful is that this jewelry is easy to make. Head to your nearest jewelry supply company and have some fun creating your own works of wearable art.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• 16 gauge wire of your choice (gold, copper, silver)
• Tape (masking works best)
• Clamp
• Needle-nosed pliers
• Wire cutters

1. Cut three pieces of wire into 20-inch lengths.
2. Hold the wires so they lie side by side, and bend the wires at their center so that they cross each other. The point below where the wires cross should look like a curve. Bend the wires with your fingers or needle-nosed pliers.
3. Wrap the curved portion of the wires in masking tape, and secure it in a clamp.
4. Straighten the wires outside the clamp (the clamp should prevent the curve from becoming undone) and divide them into three sets of two.
5. Braid the wire pairs together to the bracelet's desired length, and fashion a hook at the end by twisting the ends together with needle-nosed pliers. Cut any uneven lengths and file the ends down until they're smooth.
6. Experiment with the wire to create different designs. Instead of braiding the wires together, twist the left and middle pairs of wire together twice before incorporating the third pair, or add colorful beads or charms. Create different clasps by adding a smaller loop or using necklace clasps. Let your own imagination be your guide.
7. Make matching necklaces and earrings by using varying lengths of wire.
8. Finish your woven wire jewelry by placing it in a tumbler overnight. This will give it a polished appearance.