This tutorial is based on a class that I have been teaching to absolute beginners for many years. I created this project, the class and this tutorial with the purpose of teaching those new to wire work how to handle tools and how to make some basic shapes in wire.
I cover how to construct each of the shapes shown in the neck piece pictured. You can construct the neck piece or just make the charms. This tutorial also shows examples of those shapes used in finished pieces in different gauges of wire and in different metals.
Jewelry Making
This tutorial is geared for the beginner so every step is covered in detail with step by step photos. Although the photos are in full color they print very nicely in black and white. The tutorial is broken down into sections so that you can just print and work with one section at a time. Or save it on you PC and tablet and view it there.
In addition to learning how to make all of the shapes shown in wire, students will also learn about different of wire gauges and tempers and identification and use of basic wire working tools.
I used 12 gauge aluminum wire but you can use any wire you like. I use this wire because it is very pliable and just plain fun to work with. I recommend that you use a dead soft wire (definition in tutorial).
The necklace?in the main photo is constructed of 12 gauge aluminum. The remaining photos are close ups of the components covered within the tutorial. ?All of these and more are within this tutorial.
The amount of wire needed varies depending on what gauge you choose and how big you make your components. The necklace pictured took about 15 to 17 feet of 12 gauge aluminum wire.
***ABOUT THE SUPPLIES AND TOOLS***
This tutorial uses the Six Step Bail Making Pliers heavily. You can accomplish the same thing with round nose pliers. This is discussed within the tutorial.
You can use any wire you prefer. I have found that my new students do very will with 12 gauge aluminum as it is very soft. Any of these shapes can be made with any wire in any metal or any gauge. You would just want to adjust the size of the components accordingly.
The amount of wire used will depend on how large of a project you pursue. It is all in components so it is really up to you.
All of the materials are available in my Etsy shop. Click on an of the links below to find them in my shop.
MATERIALS LIST
1 - 15 feet 12 gauge Aluminum dead soft wire
OR any dead soft wire in 18 or 20 gauge
DO NOT choose stainless for this project as a beginner.
TOOLS LIST - and links to my favorite ones.
1 - Six Step Bail Making pliers -
OR Fatter Round Nose pliers
2 - Flush wire cutter
3 - Basic Pliers - choose a kit of pliers or purchase individually
Find KITS at
or
OR find individuly at
*Fine Round Nose pliers
*Flat nose pliers
*Chain nose pliers - optional
