Essential Wirework Techniques
Brenda Schweder
Class Preview
1:00
- In-depth Instruction; over 158 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction, Coils & Jump Rings 101
19:56
Meet wire artist Brenda Schweder as you discover the wide range of techniques you'll cover in this class. Hear Brenda's recommendations for tools and supplies, then learn her tips for forming coils and cutting perfect jump rings.
Loops & Head Pins
31:41
Create a beautiful pendant necklace and learn essential wire techniques along the way! You'll learn to form perfect closed and wrapped loops to make beaded dangles, and try your hand at forging paddled head pins. You'll learn variations to make decorative wire-wrapped head pins as Brenda shares tips on how to make your finished components hang properly.
Make a Connection
25:00
Discover techniques for creating a variety of wired cold connections with the help of Brenda's troubleshooting tips along the way. You'll create wire twist ties, gorgeous tentacles that snake along support wires, connections that are hidden by beads and other findings, and a beautiful sculptural bound connection.
Make Your Own Findings
22:24
Learn how to make your own findings to truly customize your jewelry. Brenda demonstrates ways to create ear wires for many types of earrings, helping you take the ear's shape and jewelry weight into consideration. Next, she walks you through the creation of S-clasps, hooks and toggle clasps that will secure all styles of necklaces and bracelets.
Lovely Links
18:03
Once you know how to make chain links, you will love adding them to multitudes of projects! Brenda teaches you the anatomy of links and shares the best wirework techniques for creating S-links, barbells, spirals and more.
Frame It! Armature & Captures
24:46
Turning a found object into dazzling jewelry can seem intimidating, but Brenda shares her fun and simple techniques for capturing your custom pieces. Learn how to create a simple frame for a crystal element, then try Brenda's literary-inspired "Gulliver Tie-Down" technique to secure a flat-backed component. For more dimensional objects, you'll learn Brenda's signature wrapping technique using tissue and wire to create a free-form cage.
Texture, Patinas & Finishes
16:07
Transform your pieces with textures and patinas that are customized to your design preferences. Brenda shows you how basic tools can add dimension to your pieces and create dramatic hammered and chiseled textures. Learn how to add a subtle antiqued look with a liver of sulfur patina, discover Brenda's tricks for different applications, and polish and seal your finished pieces!
In this class, award-winning jewelry designer Brenda Schweder guides you through every step of crafting wire jewelry. Once you’re familiar with the wire types and tools used in class, learn Brenda’s trick for coiling wire by hand and cutting perfectly smooth jump rings. You’ll master loops and decorative head pins while creating a lovely pendant necklace and try your hand at a variety of cold connections, from the simple twist-tie to the clever hidden connection. Create sturdy ear wires and secure closures, and discover how to make an array of chain links. Then, learn how to create dimensional frames and wire wraps to capture cabochons and crystals. Finally, transform your jewelry with hammered textures and patinas, and seal your pieces for a finish that will last years.
Brenda Schweder
Brenda Schweder is a jewelry artist and the inventor of the Now That's a Jig! wire bending system. She has written three books, including Steel Wire Jewelry, and her designs have been featured in numerous publications, including Step by Step Wire Jewelry, Bead Style and Crystal Chic. She authors Wirework Magazine's creativity column, and has appeared on the TV show Beads, Baubles and Jewels. Step by Step Wire Jewelry magazine selected Brenda as an "Artist of the Year" for 2015.
Bonus materials available after purchase