Wrap With a 4-Strand Braid

Sold by Gayle Bird Designs

$3.00

Skill Level

Beginner

What You Get

Digital Pattern (instant download)
Free Pattern Updates

How it works

This pattern was designed by a Bluprint independent design partner!
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Pattern Details

As a wire wrapper, I'm constantly looking for ways to make the wrap better, easier, and more beautiful. I think we've all tried using a braid to wrap stones but it's not always the most stable. I have really long hair and so I've done a lot of braid research - and it suddenly occurred to me to try to adapt a 4-strand braid for wire! After some experimentation I've pretty well perfected it - I can wrap the slipperiest stones in about six minutes! This technique gives you a solid foundation and allows for infinite diversions from the main steps to create a design that's uniquely yours. The brown beach glass shown in the promo photos is the exact one covered within the steps. I also include suggestions for several variations on the braid and how it can be applied in different ways. Hope you enjoy making these as much as I enjoyed putting these instructions together for you. BASIC SKILLS NECESSARY To complete this tutorial you should have basic knowledge of wire tools. I'll show you the rest! Hey I have a Craftsy Class! Organic Wire-Wrapped Pendants. Check it out: http://craftsy.me/2kH9cwb

Pattern Details

Recommended with this pattern

round artistic wire- 20 or 22 gauge
a stone to wrap
a stationary hook

Recommended with this pattern

Sold by

Gayle Bird Designs

Pattern Designer

I'm a self-representing Cape Breton wire artist with a dozen years of experience writing clear instructions for online, adult learners. I love curriculum development almost as much as I love making jewellery! The two are combining beautifully with my online tutorials. Through all the art forms I've explored - painting, digital art, clay sculpting, web design, paper art, and calligraphy - my love of colour has guided me to new discoveries. Now, over a decade of self-teaching has produced my distinctive, spontaneous style of wire-sculpted art jewellery. My pieces weave non-tarnish wire around a wide range of stimulating materials. The warmth of semi-precious gemstones, the unlimited, variegated colours of firepolished glass, and the fascinating textures & history of beach glass all lend their own character to each one-of-a-kind creation. In my steampunk-inspired line, the patina of vintage, salvaged materials contrasts sharply with the bright & modern designs in the surrounding wire. I love to create and I love to teach and share with others. I hope I can help you find a new technique or pattern you'll love!