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Thursday, February 23, 2017

Free Form Wire Wrapped Loop Bracelet Tutorials | Large Bail Forming Pliers

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Free Form Wire Wrapped Loop Bracelet Tutorials | Large Bail Forming Pliers

I've said it a number of times. The large bail forming pliers is my most favorite tool. It is very versatile as I use it not just to make bails but ear wires, clasps, custom jump rings and lots of wire loops. It is a tool worth investing in. This first tutorial by Kat Silvia is a great example of that versatility.

The wire loops are formed using 18G wire using both mandrels. I would not recommend using anything thinner as a) the wire will not be strong enough to withstand heavy wear b) the bracelet won't look as good. Going around the mandrels at least a couple of times also enhances the design. Like the instructor, 26G is great for wire wrapping as it more visible and stronger than 28G wire.

I would also recommend you use a nylon hammer and a metal block to work harden the wire loop sections before you start wire wrapping the 8mm beads in. Another consideration is to wire wrap all the loop sections together to ensure they stay put.

There is lots of room for customizing the design for yourself as you can create different loop forms and decide just how much bead wire wrapping you want to do and where. The designer used 8 mm druks but you can use gemstones and crystals as well.

If you want a simpler approach, check out this tutorial by Judy Mertz which just uses alternating loops of wire.