Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Hi, 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...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 in dead soft would be great. Be aware if this will be worn often it can rub against skin wearing down color coating if using Zebra Wire or ParaWire. 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