A How-To: Quick Wire-Wrapped Rings

Hello Beaders + Crafters!

**DISCLAIMER: This disclaimer is for all those offended by my nails in this video :P Yes, my nails are a HOT mess! That's what happens when you're a mother to two young boys, an owner of a small business and an artist who's hard on the hands. My free time went to sharing my beading knowledge through this video and not into redoing my nails...and let's be honest, I'm not amazing at making videos either...YIKES! Hands up for all the rough-on-the-nails artists out there willing to share their creative secrets with the wider world!! :D

In this video, you will learn how to make a quick, wire-wrapped ring using the materials we sell here at Firefly Carrboro! Most can be found on our website, www.fireflycarrboro.com - Otherwise, a larger selection of materials can be found in-shop if you're local to Carrboro, North Carolina!

FAQ: Why do you make the ring bigger than your intended size while working on the ring mandrel?

The reason why you "size up" on the ring mandrel is because the bead is not flat, and fits into the groove of the mandrel. You need to allow some extra space to make the ring comfortable to wear. Also, keep in mind, wire wrapping can make things a bit smaller and tighter as you work. I always work on the ring mandrel a size or size and a half bigger than what I want my final size to be. This is why if I'm making a size 6 ring, I always work between the 7 and 7.5 mark on my mandrel. So, for example, if you need to make a size 7 ring, work on the mandrel at the 8 to 8.5 marker.

TOOLS + SUPPLIES

20 Gauge Craft Wire, or Dead Soft Wire
https://firefly-carrboro.myshopify.co...

Ruler
Ring Mandrel or Ring Stick (preferably one with a notched side
https://firefly-carrboro.myshopify.co...

Chain Nose Pliers
Flush or Wire Cutters
Beads of Choice (We are using 8mm rounds in this video, but as long as your bead's hole can fit 20 gauge wire, you should be able to use it!)

Beading Mat (optional; but will help keep your beads from rolling around as you work!)

Enjoy and Happy Beading!