It's been over a year since my big move and I still haven't worked out where to teach locally!  But thanks to the internet, I have been and will be teaching internationally through my blog and with full length tutorials in Etsy.   So here is my first effort in the latter category - a humble beginning in a planned series of Toolerrific Tutorials.  Why Toolerrific?  That's because some of my most favorite tools are terrific and inexpensive!  


PDF Tutorial using the Wire Worker

I've received a number of requests for tutorials of some of my designs over the years.  While this first one for a coiled wire frame pendant is not the most requested by a long shot, I thought it was a good start. It can be adapted to round and other irregular shapes not just a heart*.   The coiled wire frame gives a strong definition to thicker (not flat) pieces.  I sold a round sterling silver version some time back which framed a round cross stone gemstone.


Andalusite (Chiastolite) Cross Stone Pendant
It is relatively easy although beginners might find it tricky which is why I worked up to 59 pictures in all including the final "beauty" shots!  There is a twist -  heart is partially tension set within the coiled wire frame.


The main objective of this tutorial is to learn how to use a round mandrel of the Wire Worker by Artistic Wire in a creative fashion.  The tutorial not only shows how to make the coil but also how to create the wire bail as well. There are handy tips too for those who think they need more than 2 hands!


 I do not have any association with the manufacturer nor do I sell it. The tool can be purchased from some jewelry suppliers like Art Beads for about $12.


This plastic and metal set is very versatile and is my absolute favorite coiling tool set. Yes, I have others! You can create quite amazing designs with the mandrels.  I hope to move on to the twisted wire coil design tutorials which many would definitely like! Here is an example I am considering :


* I don't usually sell supplies but if you want to purchase some perhaps hard to get but gorgeous crystal hearts (about 1 " x 3/4") I do have some surplus I could sell in black, metallic purple, topaz and clear (this one is larger).  Just email me.




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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM
Jewelry Making Tips - Jewelry Business Tips