Wire wrapping is a useful technique when it comes to making jewelry, and it's a fantastic method for creating gorgeous rings. You can show off a favorite bead and get a custom fit by making your own ring designs using various wire-wrapping methods.
Simple Wire-Wrapped Ring
This basic design is a great place to start if you're new to wire wrapping. You can use inexpensive silver-plated copper wire from your local craft store and a pretty bead. This example uses a freshwater pearl, but you can choose any type of bead you like.
Things You'll Need
- 24 gauge wire
- Bead
- Round object or ring mandrel
- Two pairs of pliers
- Wire cutters
What to Do
- Select a round object that is approximately the size of your finger. Cut about 15 inches of wire and wrap it four or five times around the round object, leaving plenty of room on both ends. Twist the wire to help it hold its shape.
- Remove the wire from the round object. Take one end of the wire and wrap it around the layers of the ring to secure them together. You'll need to wrap it about six times. Repeat with the other end of the wire.
- Slide a bead on one of the wire ends. Bend the wire over so the bead lies flat against the ring. Twist the two wires together to secure the bead.
- Wrap the two wire ends around the bead several times. Continue wrapping until you have framed the bead with the wire and you have about an inch left on each wire.
- Wrap the ends of the wire around the shank of the ring a few times to secure them. Then tuck the rough ends into the nest of wire so they won't catch on skin or clothing.
Cute as a Button Ring
Antique buttons are like tiny works of art, and they make a great focal point for any wire-wrapped ring. For this design, you'll need a button with four holes in it. Choose your button first, and then select wire that contrasts in color and is the appropriate gauge to fit through the holes in the button.
Things You'll Need
- Antique button with four holes
- Wire to fit though holes
- Round object
- Two pairs of pliers
- Wire cutters
What to Do
- Cut two pieces of wire, one slightly longer than the other. The length will depend on how many times you want to wrap the wire, but about seven or eight inches is a good place to start.
- Use the pliers to bend the shorter piece of wire in a narrow U-shape. Slide the button on the wire, using two diagonal holes. Then bend the wire ends out to flatten them.
- Repeat this process with the longer piece of wire, threading it through the alternating holes to create an X on top of the button.
- Twist the two wires together on each side on the back of the button.
- Wrap the wires around a round object like a marker or ring mandrel. For a sturdy ring, it's a good idea to have at least four layers of wire. Remove the ring from the round object and wrap the wire ends around the base of the button.
- Tuck the raw ends of the wire up into the wrapped area under the button. This will prevent them from scratching skin or clothing.
Spectacular Spiral Ring
This design is crafted from dead soft 14 gauge sterling silver wire and a tiny bit of 26 gauge gold wire; however, you can choose the metal content based on your budget. No matter what kind of metal you choose, make sure you select wire that is malleable. The finished ring is slightly adjustable and is a great way to display an especially lovely bead.
Things You'll Need
- 14 gauge wire
- 26 gauge wire
- Bead
- Round object to use as a ring mandrel
- Two pairs of pliers
- Wire cutters
- File
What to Do
- Start by cutting the 14 gauge wire to a length of about five inches. You can make it slightly longer if you have large fingers or if you want a more elaborate design.
- Wrap the wire once around the ring mandrel or other round object. Overlap the two ends of the wire.
- Use your pliers to form the ends into spirals. Bend the wire out away from the center of the ring in the sprial shape, and then carefully flatten it.
- Remove the ring from the round object and set it aside. Cut about two inches of 26 gauge wire. Place the bead in the center of this wire.
- Wrap one end of the 26 gauge wire around the top spiral of the ring. Wrap several times and then tuck the end in to prevent snags.
- Wrap the other end of the 26 gauge wire around the bottom spiral of the ring, pulling the wire taught. Tuck the end of the wire in so it won't catch on skin or clothing. Carefully file any rough edges.
Show Off Your Skills
Whether you've been crafting with bead and wire forever or you're new to making wire jewelry, rings offer the perfect way to show off your skills and your favorite materials. Try out several designs to find the one you love best, and then experiment by adding your own creative touches.
