Step 1
For clarity, extras pegs have been used to demonstrate the shape you’ll need to form. Set up as much of the design as your jig will allow, starting either on the left hand or right hand end.
Step 2
Take the thick wire and leaving a starting tail of 10cm, weave around the shape starting with the top peg. You’ll need to use your thumb and fingers of your non-dominant hand to hold the pegs in place because the wire will be relatively firm to work with. Once you’ve run out of pegs move the first small and first large one along and repeat.
Step 3
Cut 50cm of fine wire and leaving a 7cm tail, wind it firmly around the first large (bottom) loop. You should count the number of windings so that you can replicate it for the next bottom loop. This will house the 8mm beads. To stop the short tail flapping around press it against the framework with the thumb and finger of your non-dominant hand. Don’t rush the winding as you need it to be as neat as possible - wire is quite soft so you’ll be able to snug up any gaps by easing it with your nail.
Step 4
When you have sufficient windings pass one wire through an 8mm bead and check to see that the ends of the windings sit level with both holes of the bead. Pass one wire through the bead and allow it to settle against the winding then pass the other wire though in the opposite direction. Pull at the tip of the wire so there’s no chance that you’ll snap the wire too low down.
Step 5
Wrap the tails twice around the frame keeping the wraps right down against those already in place. Trim off the excess close to the frame.
Flatten the cut ends down onto the frame.
Step 6
Repeat the process to add a 6mm bead within the top loop. Again, count the number of windings so you can do the same with the other 6mm beads. You’ll need to adjust the frame a little to accommodate the bead. Once you’ve got a few beads into place, trim back the tail of the thick wire to leave 4cm then curl into a spiral with round nose pliers leaving a hole in the centre of the spiral.
Step 7
To complete your necklace you can add a jump ring and chain or as shown here use some suede cord. The length you choose will depend on how long a necklace you require. Pass the cord through the centre of the spiral and fold the ends over and add a dab of glue. The glue will be strong enough to hold the suede but for a little decoration wrap some of the fine wire around the suede close to the spiral. Attach your clasp in the same way by forming little loops at the end of the suede, or simply leave a length of cord and tie a knot to secure.
MATERIALS
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TOOLS
• Wire cutters
• Round nose pliers
• Chain nose pliers
• Wire jig
Before you begin…
A wire jig has been used to create the curvy section but you could use a broad pen to mould the wire around. It doesn’t matter what size of jig you have as you can start at one end and work your way along by moving the pegs. TOP TIP - When you're finishing your necklace, thread the item (in this instance the clasp on a jump ring) onto the cord first then add a small amount of glue to the end 1cm of the suede then fold over and stick into place to form a loop. Wait until the glued seam is completely dry before adding any decorative wire wrap.