How to Make a Wire Kippa

A kippa (skullcap) is traditionally worn by Orthodox Jewish men and is silk, suede, velvet or cloth. However, in the other Jewish denomination, both genders wear a kippa for religious occasions. A wire and bead kippa is a unique and feminine twist to a kippa.

Things You'll Need

• 22- or 24-gauge wire
• Pliers
• Wire cutters
• Beads (glass, handmade, plastic, semi-precious and/or charms)
• 3 hair combs--wire or plastic

Instructions

1. Rub the wire in your hands before you start working to soften it.

2. Weave one or two rounds of wire in the center with a few beads or a charm by creating loops that can weaved in and out. In order to stabilize the kippa, wrap the end of the wire around the center 3 to 4 times.

3. Add beads after the first two rounds of wire.

4. Make six loops to start with and increase the number of loops you make depending on how tight you want the kippa. The amounts can vary as long as the kippa grows in size and lays flat.

5. Wrap wire three or four times to end a piece, or start to attach new wire using pliers or wire cutters. Continue the process until the kippa is approximately 5 inches, or as large as you want it.

6. Attach 3 hair combs in the middle of the kippa, using 3-inch to 4-inch wire to help the kippa stay on your head.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a bead with you when buying the wire to ensure that the hole fits through. 24 inches to 36 inches of wire should be worked with at a time. Sketch an outline of your kippa and bead design ahead of time. Pull the wire tight as you work with it. Straighten out kinks by adding beads over them, or using pliers.

• Make sure that all of the wires you use are closely clipped, or you may end up with loose wires coming out of your kippa.

References

• Handmade Wire and Bead Kippot
• Wire and Bead Kippa