3 of 3

Write now Article Tools

An alternative for cutting off that extra wire on a briolette wrap or for the end of a headpin can be a spiral.
How thick a wire do you use for these decorative spiral? Whatever fits comfortably through your bead. For small decorative beads, which is when I use them most, 24g works well. For heavier beads or bail wraps 22-20g can be used. There are also pre-twisted and square wires to add even more texture into your designs.

Grip one end of your wire at the very tip with your round nose pliers. With a little tension, curl a tiny loop at the end. Now with your needle nose or flat pliers, grip on the top and bottom of this little loop. DO NOT EVER use pliers with serrated insides as they will mar and weaken your wire. Since you took the time to make it, you don't want it to loose it's shape!
Continue pushing the wire around the outside of this original loop, then around the next layer, thus layering into a larger, flat spiral.
When you get to almost the size you want, create a 45 degree kink in the side of the wire that is still straight. Continue spiraling until it aligns in the center of the top of the spiral. It should look like a lollipop!

Ideas for use:
1)The bottoms of earrings rather than a headpin. This little bit of wire adds tons of character with just a little work.
2)Bail wraps or briolette wraps are made when you do a wire wrap around a second piece of wire. That second piece is usually cut off, but instead you can utilize it for making a spiral. Bail wraps take a thicker gauge of wire than briolette wraps as they are holding up more weight.

Now you don't have to see all of that extra wire you have been cutting off go to waste!

Learn more about this author, Karey Grant.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to make a wire spiral?
We want to hear your view. Write now!