Secrets to Wireworking
Join jewelry designer Patti on a journey through the Secrets to Wireworking. Moving from basic to complex designs, this video series covers a variety of techniques to expand your jewelry-making prowess.
An Introduction to the Artist
Patti, our resident wirework extraordinaire, kicks off this series with a glimpse into her own creative journey and heartfelt encouragement to continue your artistic pursuits.
Video 1: Wire-Wrapped Loops, Bead Overwrap and Simple Loops
The first project in our wirework series is a gorgeous pair of rhodonite and tassel earrings. Go step-by-step with Patti as she teaches you how to create a wire-wrapped loop, a bead overwrap and a simple loop.
Video 2: Closed Wire Spirals
Modern materials meet vintage style in the next project of our wirework video series. Grab your pliers and follow along with Patti as she teaches you how to form closed wire spirals for an eye-catching element in this whimsical earring project.
Video 3: Creating a Clasp
Lively blue howlite seems to defy gravity in the next project of our wirework series. Join Patti once again for an overview on two of wirework's most common techniques. Learn how to overwrap gemstone beads and create a clasp for a polished bangle.
Video 4: Wire Vines
The next project in our wirework video series teaches a technique especially popular in bridal and fantasy-inspired jewelry: wire vines! Pick-up your favorite needle-nose pliers and follow along as you create this pair of earrings bursting with radiant appeal.
Video 5: Figure-8 Bail
Build on the skills from the previous projects as you head into the next. Create wire spirals and twisted wire vines to form the splayed branches of this tree of life suncatcher. Then finish the look with the newest featured technique--a figure-8 bail!
Video 6: Planishing (Hammering)
The next project in our wire-working series shows how to planish, or hammer, the details of your wirework. Learn how to play with line weight by flattening parts of your wire shapes. The effect is a ribbon-like look that's elevated even more when you incorporate shimmering crystals.
Video 7: Custom Ear Wires
Add an extra touch of style with custom ear wires, the featured technique of our next wireworking video project. Patti shows you how to use loops to create this pair of cascading crystal chandelier earrings. Plus, you'll learn how to add an eye-catching hammered finish to the wire loops!
Video 8: Wire-Wrapped Bails
The next project in our wirework series is a classic wire-wrapped donut necklace. Go along with Patti as she teaches you how to embellish this shape with wire-weaving and crystal bicones. Then, attach the finished pendant to the chain of your choice with the featured technique--a wire-wrapped bail.
Video 9: Layered Spirals
Our final wireworking project in this video series is oh-so lovely. This sparkling heart necklace is an excellent way to build on many of the skills you've learned from past projects--open spirals, planishing and hammered textures--and to try out the featured technique--layered spirals.
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