Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

I’d like to make a necklace by loosely braiding or weaving three strands of wire together and adding beads periodically. Is memory wire the way to go? Would the bare wire be uncomfortable? I want a very light and airy feel to the necklace. Would something else work better? I’ve racked my brain, and I would appreciate your help! Thank you very much.

Memory wire is much too stiff to braid. Use either a soft wire like copper Zebra Wire™ or ParaWire™, or if you want it to be precious metal, sterling silver or gold-filled dead-soft wire would be great. Be aware that if you're using Zebra Wire or ParaWire, the color coating can wear off from frequent rubbing against skin. You probably want 20- or 22-gauge if using 3 strands, or 22- to 24-gauge for more strands. If you tuck in the ends and sand them down if needed, it should be comfortable to wear. I’d suggest making a test piece with inexpensive wire to see how it feels. 

- Patti