A couple of years ago I had an idea to try something new. Instead of using yarn for crocheting I thought it might be fun to use wire. I had done a few beaded crochet projects and decided that it would be simple enough to add beads in with wire. I found different gauge wire ranging from 18 to 28 gauge. Of course the lighter gauge wire was much easier to crochet and allowed for a very delicate piece of jewelry upon completion. However, I found that some items really needed a heavier gauge in order to carry the weight of the beads. Lighter gauge wire lends itself to a more elastic product whereas the heavier gauge will uphold the original shape longer. You'll definitely want to use a metal crochet hook for these projects. And for the heavy gauge wire, don't be surprised how the wire will chew up the hook....so, I recommend using an inexpensive hook.
As in any beaded project, you will want to load the wire with all the beads (selecting your pattern beforehand if applicable). To allow the beads to show on the right side of you project, you will only want to incorporate the beads on each right side row...so, in other words every other row. Have fun with your designs as they will truly become wearable art.
A word of warning: Be ready to receive attention from others when you wear your jewelry. Everyone will want to know where you got it!!
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