When I was getting started with wire jewelry, I had a difficult time trying to learn how to wire wrap side drilled briolette (pear or oval shaped) gems. I bought a book to walk me through steps, but I still struggled with the process because I wasn’t comfortable with how to hold or work with the pliers. After much practice, I mastered the technique, but it would have been much easier if I had watched someone else first.
Here are a few tips you may want to consider if you’re just getting started:
- Use a soft, high gauge of wire (26-28 mm), thinner wire will allow you more flexibility and control as you work with the wire.
- You may want to start out with copper wire to master the technique since it’s less expensive than sterling silver or gold (I wasted a lot of wire before I mastered this technique).
- Make sure your briolettes are side drilled, not drilled top to bottom (top to bottom drilling requires headpins).
Good luck mastering this technique and please share your finished products with us!
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2 Comments
Wonderful tutorial Courtney! I have never been able to get the hang of twisting wires when making pendants and earrings. I think I'll be out to do it now! Thanks so much!
Love violette
I meant to say – I will be able to do it now! I'm using a voice recognition program since I broke my wrist and it's in a cast. Guess I'll have to wait until the cast is off to try this wonderful technique!