Easy Memory Wire Bracelet

Intro: Easy Memory Wire Bracelet

Memory wire retains its shape even when you stretch it or bend it. It is quite popular in making bracelets, earrings, finger rings, etc. In this 'ible, I have shown how to make a simple bracelet and this technique can be applied to any other jewelry made out of memory wire.

STEP 1: Tools and Materials

Tools:

1. Nose pliers
2. Wire cutting pliers

Materials:

1. Crystal beads. Available here
2. Spacer beads. Available here
   
3. Faceted rectangular beads. I can no longer find the online source, but something is similar available here
4. Memory wire for bracelet. Available here.

STEP 2: Measuring Out the Wire

Measure your wrist size with a piece of paper.

Then cut out a suitable length of memory wire. Leave about 2 inches more than what your paper measures.

STEP 3: Making the "diamond" Loop

The end of the memory wire needs to be folded in a diamond shape. This prevents the beads from coming out and also the sharp end of the wire does not prick your wrists when using the bracelet.

Use your nose pliers to carefully make a small diamond at the end of the memory wire loop you have cut.

STEP 4: Beading

Insert the beads in the memory wire.

I have followed the following pattern:

- C - s - C - F - C - s - C -

where,

C = Crystal bead

s = Spacer bead

F = Faceted bead

STEP 5: End Diamond Loop

Fill all the beads along the length of the memory wire length.

Again using the nose pliers make another diamond loop at the end of the memory wire.

STEP 6: Trim the Extra Wire

If you are left with any extra length of wire, trim it carefully with the cutting pliers. Fold away any extra length of wire into the hole of the bead so that it does not hurt your wrist.

STEP 7: Flaunt!

You are now finished with the memory wire bracelet.

Time to flaunt it!

Comments

[mrsmerwin]

When I have tried to bend a loop in the end of memory wire, I have found that it does not want to bend. Any tricks?--other than putting it in a vice and smacking it with a hammer.

[Pra_ga]

Hello mrsmerwin,

Thanks for dropping by :)

The memory wire I have is quite pliable. In fact, I was able to easily form it into a loop using nose pliers.

I can think about a work around to the problem you are facing. Perhaps you can Super Glue a bead at the open end to prevent the beads from slipping out.

Another method that would work is using locking beads (also known as crimp end beads) to lock the ends in place. I could find a source for you here

[mrsmerwin]

I tried gluing a bead--unsuccessfully. I will try the crimp bead. That sounds like it might work.

[Pra_ga]

I really hope crimping works out and you have a wonderful bracelet ready :)