The wires used in this style of weaving fall into two different categories. The frame wires give a piece of jewelry its form. After being shaped, the frame wires remain mostly stationary while the weaving wire wraps around them. The weaving wire is usually at least two gauges thinner than the frame wires. It holds the frame wires together and creates various textures. To create the
braided wire bracelet, you’ll use 18-gauge (1.0 mm) wire for the frame wires and 26-gauge (0.4 mm) wire for the weaving wire. For these tutorials, I used copper wire for the frame wires and green craft wire for the weaving wire to increase visibility.
NOTE: If you’re right-handed, hold the piece you are working on in your left hand and weave from left to right with your right hand (as shown in the photos). Work in the opposite direction if you are left-handed. The direction to wrap the weaving wire is always under the frame wires and away from you, or over the frame wires and toward you, regardless of which hand you use.
This ribbon is made with two frame wires. You’ll need approximately 12 in. (30.5 cm) of weaving wire for 1 in. (25.5 mm) of weave.