Intro to Memory Wire
23 June 2009
Author: Vickie Pozzolini
A quick and easy way to get into making jewelry is with an introduction to memory wire jewelry. Know also as wrap around jewelry, memory wire requires no closure finding for finishing. The wire used for memory wire, is coiled tempered steel designed to retain its rounded shape. Memory wire is available in different sizes for rings, bracelets and necklaces. You can create single or multi-rowed jewelry. The most important thing to know about working with memory is to cut it with memory wire cutters only. The tempered steel will destroy other tools if you try to cut the wire with them.To create a necklace or other piece of jewelry with memory wire, determine the number of times you want the piece to be wrapped. Cut the wire to your specifications and create a loop on one end of the wire. You will need to have a strong grip on your chain nose pliers in order to make a successful loop. The wire is extremely strong and very hard to bend. Test first by bending a sample wire to make a loop, before working your actual piece. It is very different from other jewelry wires; so best you get a feel for it first.
Once you get your loop or end secured, then it is just a matter of threading beads and other findings onto the memory wire. Charms, crystals, pearl, pendants and other components add interest and texture to memory wire jewelry designs. So go ahead and experiment! The fun with memory wire is the ease in creating – if you do not like the look, just start over again.
Once all the components are threaded onto the memory wire in the pattern and size you desire, it’s time to create another loop to finish off the end. Remember brute strength is key here and take care not to bash any delicate crystals right at the end.
Embellish your memory wire jewelry piece with dangles – they make great finishing details. Select some of the beads from that you have used and string them on a head pin, create an eye loop at top and attach them on as fun dangle accents.
If you do not want to make a loop to start and finish your memory wire piece, you can use half-drilled caps that are specifically designed for memory wire. Glue the caps onto the ends using an appropriate jewelry glue for this type of material.
In addition to making jewelry pieces like bracelets and necklaces, the ring size version of memory wire is fun to use in creating wine charms for a special party or to give a set as a hostess gift. Add some beads and different charms to each separate ring, in order for your guest to identify their wine glass. Change the charms to celebrate different holiday or themed gatherings. Bracelet-sized memory wire can be beaded and tasseled into napkin rings for your table setting. Now that you have been introduced to memory wire you will find many ways in which to use this technique. So, just be inventive and explore them all – you won’t be sorry you did.