It's a Wrap!

Wire wrap that is! Last night my BFF Saundra and I took a wire wrap jewelry making class. This is our 2nd jewelry making class -- the first was a beginning class taken last fall -- you know the kind, "this is a bead, this is a pair of needle nose pliers," etc. Even though it was a beginner class, we learned enough in one night to complete a necklace, bracelet, and pair of earrings -- and we left feeling comfortable enough with our "skills" that I made earrings for my friends for Christmas 2008.

I love to learn new things and last night's wire wrap class was quite fun. The class was held at BEADS OF SHARON, an unassuming beadshop in San Luis Obispo. The shop is located in an industrial park, so unless you know it's there, you have probably driven by and missed the wonderful inventory, classes, and assistance that Sharon offers. (Also, Sharon is gracious enough to offer my greeting cards, magnets, and miniature original paintings.)

Sharon started the evening by asking us to pick out 10 beads, plus some findings. We selected our beads and findings and she immediately started us on wire wrapping with a copper wire -- evidently copper is a little easier for beginners to use to learn the technique. As we felt comfortable with the process, we abandoned our sample wire and switched to sterling silver wire and set to the task of creating a bracelet and a pair of earrings. In just 3-1/2 hours, Sharon took us from fumbling jewelry maker wanna-bes, to wire wrappers...

The beads in my bracelet are from top left, clockwise: Garnet, Sterling Silver Bead, New Jade, Yellow Turquoise, Glass Pearl, New Jade, a nut, Serpentine, and another Sterling Silver bead. Sharon didn't skimp on the materials she allowed us to use for our first projects, and she made sure each person had a good understanding of the process.

If you ever have the chance, I would recommend visiting the Beads of Sharon shop and/or taking a class. You might even consider a "girls night" out, birthday party or shower there. It is a great opportunity to hang out with a wonderful bunch of ladies, learn something new, and add to your jewelry wardrobe all at the same time!