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Daily Wire Tip Nov. 6: Planning Wire Length

By on November 6, 2009
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
November 6, 2009

Question:

Can you tell me the basic rule for how to add to your wire if you were making a bracelet for a 7 1/2` inch wrist?

Answer:

I think we would all love one simple formula for making wire bracelets, but each calculation depends both on the design of the bracelet and what type of clasp it will contain.

To plan your wire length you need to, ‘A’ determine how long the finished bracelet will be (depending on how loose or tight a fit is desired). Then ‘B’ figure how much wire will be needed to finish each end and add the total length of the clasp from eye to eye. Subtract the total of ‘B’ from length ‘A’, and there is the required length of wire. If the bracelet includes beads or cabochon components, the length of wire may change, as more will be needed to go around each component or bead.

For example, if the wrist is 7 ½ inches around and the person likes a loose bracelet, then you would add anywhere from ½ to ¾ or even one full inch to the 7 ½ inch measurement. If no components or beads are to included, subtract the length of the clasp that will be used from this total and the result will equal the length of wire you need.

Answer contributed by Dale `Cougar` Armstrong

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