Frequently Asked Questions...
Question : What type wire for Swarovski Crystal Necklaces?
I want to make a Swarovski necklace and I am not sure as to what kind of wire to buy. I will be using 4, 6 and 8mm bicones and Briolettes in crystal. I know I don't want the memory wire. I want it to lay softly on the neck. Meaning to be flexable not stiff. Please be specific on what to look for when I look it up. I was told soft-flex...or Beadalon but not specific size to buy. Please help...Thank You
Answer:
Both Beadalon and SoftFlex are brand names. You are probably referring to their nylon-coated beading wire - sometimes called tigertail. The better stuff is multi-strand ie inside the coating are 7, 19, 21 or even 49 strands of wire
Which one you buy depends on whether it will be seen as part of the design, and whether you intend to knot it.
The more strands the stronger it is, the easier it is knot, and the more expensive it is.
A good all-rounder is Beadalon 19 strand .012 inch - see a picture here:
http://craft.ontheinternet.com.au/data/showcode.asp?code=M011n
SoftFlex also make a multi-strand Sterling Silver one called 925 extreme - see it here:
http://craft.ontheinternet.com.au/data/showcode.asp?code=M405k
Crystal Briolettes
Loops Swarovski Crystal Briolettes
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