Wine Charms 101

I was asked to conduct a class on how to make wine charms recently, so came up with this tutorial for the class. Thought I would post here too for anyone to use.


Supplies:
o Charms of your choice
o Jump Rings
o Wire Hoops
o Glass Beads (E size or larger)
o Metal Spacer Beads
o Flat Nose Pliers

Preparation

A flat surface with either a paper/plastic plate or a towel for you to lay your supplies on is best. This will keep beads from rolling away and ending up on the floor.

Inspect each charm to see if they will need a jump ring so it will lie correctly as a wine charm. Keep in mind that most charms will require a jump ring as charms are meant to dangle and not lay flat.


Time to create!

Notice that most wire hoops have one end with a loop and one straight end. The straight end is where you will “string” the beads on the hoop.

Begin stringing your beads on the hoop, adding the metal spacer where needed. Keep in mind you only want to string half of your beads on the hoop.



Add the charm by stringing it on the hoop.

Finish stringing the rest of your beads on the hoop.

With your flat nose pliers, take the straight end of the hoop and bend slowly to a 90 degree angle.

Secure to the base of a wine glass by hooking the angled end into the loop end of the hoop.

Not all wine charms need to be wine themed. I've used all styles, as you can see at http://www.thecraftywino.etsy.com/. Keep in mind that you want your charms to lay on the bottom of the glass, so don't use mini Christmas ornaments that are bulky or round. The flatter the better.

Another suggestion, have a glass of wine while making them. ;)