Memory wire is great fun to use and simple enough for kids and adults alike to use.  It comes in ring, bracelet and necklace sizes and can create pretty and fun pieces of jewellery very quickly!  The main manufacturer of it is Beadalon although there are all kinds of cheaper memory wire available - although not all of the same quality, again you get what you pay for!!  Memory wire is made from strong stainless steel wire, coated in nylon which gives it it's memory!  It will stretch to accommodate the beads strung on it, to fit the wearer and will return to it's original shape.  If heavy beads are placed on it it can stretch over time but this shouldn't be anything (depending on quality of wire purchased) that will affect the jewellery design and in most cases just makes wearing more comfortable.

To use memory wire all you need is a pair of memory wire cutters, beads, round nose pliers and possibly some headpins or jump rings.  It is not advisable to use normal pliers to cut the wire as it will quickly damage normal cutting pliers and memory wire cutters can be purchased for around £10.   Round nose pliers will be needed if you intend to finish off the ends with a loop - otherwise you will also need to invest in some memory wire end caps and some epoxy glue too (or superglue if you're stuck!!). 

To start with select the correct size of memory wire for your project, and turn a small loop in the end of the wire with the pliers (or glue on an end cap!) thread the beads on in the order required and turn a small loop at the other end (or glue on another end cap!!).

Once the initial techniques are mastered more complicated things can be attempted, if you wish you can make a beaded dangle from a headpin and attach this to the end loops, or alternatively spacers bars can be used to create multistrand appearances with cut wire and end caps.  If you're feeling really adventurous you can even make candle wraps, tie-backs, napkin rings and all kinds of other things beside jewellery!! We have books with more ideas in the shop BeADiva Online 

If you need any more advice on how to use memory wire - please contact us, we're always happy to help!