Memory Wire: Bits & Pieces

If you like working with memory wire you've probably found yourself with odd lengths left over that you hate to throw out, but they don't lend themselves to the usual designs.  Here are some ideas for using many (if not all) of those scraps.

Memory wire bracelets will usually wrap around the wrist two or three times.  This adds security since you don't put clasps on the wire.

Two single-wrap memory wire bracelets using fresh water pearls and Swarovski crystals

If you have bracelet sized wire where the ends overlap by at least two inches they will still work for bracelets.  Make bracelets using mostly size 8/0 or 6/0 seed beads (or even 11/0) to keep them light weight.  Throw in a few crystals or semi-precious beads and they will sparkle with sophistication.  Wear them individually, stack them to really show them off, or mix and match.

Single-wrap memory wire bracelet

Three single-wrap memory wire bracelets

What about shorter pieces, say 2 or 3 inches?  Well, those bracelets need matching earrings, don't they?  If you don't like leaving a loop at the bottom of the wire, you could add a short dangle on a headpin, or finish the ends with an end cap (more on that below).

Memory wire earrings

Memory wire earrings

You haven't worked with memory wire but now you're interested?  Let's get you started. 

Memory wire is a hardened steel wire that is tempered to retain its shape, and is available in different shapes and sizes.  At Bead In Hand we carry round shapes for a small bracelet, large bracelet and choker size.  What's great about memory wire is how easy it is to use.  String on the beads.  Finish ends.  Done.

A coil of memory wire

Here is the most important thing you need to know:  never cut memory wire with soft wire cutters!!!  It will nick and forever ruin your cutters.  You have two choices for cutting memory wire: 1) use memory wire cutters, or 2) bend the wire back and forth until it breaks.

Memory wire cutters

Close up of cutters

You also have two choices for finishing the ends of memory wire: 1) make a loop at each end, or 2) glue a memory wire end cap on each end (half-drilled beads that fit snugly on the wire).  We usually finish the ends by making a loop--it's easy and secure, and you can hang an extra dangle or two off as well!

Finishing with loops

Memory wire end cap

Although memory wire is hard, your regular round nose pliers will work for making the loops at the end.  However, if you work with it a lot, we strongly recommend using round hollow pliers for making the loops.  They help relieve the stress from repetitive hand motions.

Now you're ready to start -- let's see some show & tell!

Round hollow pliers

A mix and match group of bracelets

Three single-wrap memory wire bracelets using seed beads, copper beads and Chinese crystals

A group of bracelets with seed beads and Swarovski pearls