Beadalon has added 3 new colors of French Wire - Rose Gold Color, Vintage Bronze Color, and Vintage Silver Color! When added to the .925 Sterling Silver, Silver Plated, and Gold Color already in our catalog, there are 6 total colors to choose from! Not only that, but we also have French Wire available 5 sizes - from Fine to XX-Heavy to best fit the stringing material that you'll be covering.
Beadalon French Wire, also known as 'Gimp' and 'Bullion' is used to cover and protect bead cord from friction and breakage at the clasp area. French Wire is especially helpful for fortifying silk beading cord and giving designs a professional finish. You can find full instructions for adding French Wire to a traditionally knotted pearl necklace here.
Of course, I can't just use French Wire for its original intention. I've been using it in all kinds of designs from memory wire (shown above) to bead stringing, to wire work. I love the way it adds extra shine and sparkle when used as a spacer bead, or as an extra buffer under a large holed bead. I've found that lengths less than about an inch and a half are best. Remember, French Wire is very fine wire, tightly coiled into a spring. It's delicate, so be sure to handle with care!
Do you use French Wire in a non traditional way? Show us what you've made in the Jewelry Making with Beadalon Facebook Group, and check out the Facebook Live all about French Wire from last week and set your reminders to join us live on Facebook at 2pm ET on Thursdays.
Until then, happy beading!
Meredith
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