Beaded Wired Tree Art

Don't be afraid of wirework anymore. This Beaded Wired Tree Art from Candace Jedrowicz is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience with wire. By following this careful wire wrapping tutorial, you'll learn how to create beautiful DIY home decor with basic materials. Learning a new craft technique is always rewarding, even more so when it yields such stunning results. Every time a guest stops by your house and spots this tasteful tree, you can brag about it was you who put the whole thing together.

Materials:

• 14 gauge wire - 10" or more
• 22 gauge wire - a roll of it
• Round nose pliers
• Wire cutters
• Chain nose pliers
• Hot glue
• Frame - optional
• Charms to hang on the tree - optional

Instructions:

1. Cut 2 pieces of 4' 14 gauge wire and fold in half. Fold a bent wire 2" from the bend and bend in the opposite direction on both sides of the bend.
    
2. Pinch the two folded parts and twist. These will be roots. Repeat with the other 4" wire.
    
3. Cut a 2' piece of the 14 gauge wire and bend one end, twisting to make a 5th root.
    
4. Holding the roots together, begin twisting the tree truck wires together. Add as many extra wires as desired to add bulk to your trunk.
    
5. Decide where the branches will open up and separate them.
    
6. Cut 20 or more 2" pieces of 22 gauge wire and fold them in half. Twist each for added strength and thickness.
    
7. Begin wrapping the smaller wires around the trunk, working upward and around the branches until you have the look you want.
    
8. To add charms, curl the ends of the branches, slide the charm on and secure by completing the curl.
    
9. To add into a frame make sure the roots and branches have a flattened back side.
    
10. Make sure there are plenty of contact points between the frame, backing and tree for the glue to create a good bond.