"Autumn Grace" Hair Pin or Jewelry Accessory Tutorial: Step-by-Step Guide

Today, I’m thrilled to guide you through creating a beautiful and versatile accessory – the "Autumn Grace" Hair Pin. This piece can also double as a brooch or scarf pin, making it the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some sparkle with beads, this design is adaptable to your style. So, gather your tools and materials, and let's get started!

Tools and Materials:

For this project, you will need:

• Chain nose pliers
• Round nose pliers
• Flush cutters
• Heavy-duty cutters (for 12-gauge wire)
• Ruler
• Chasing hammer
• Steel bench block or anvil
• Dapping block or a similar round object (27mm in diameter)
• Needle file
• Sanding pads (600, 1000, 2000 and 3000 grit)
• 12-gauge wire (one 8-inch and one 5-inch segment)
• 24-gauge wire (about 2 feet)
• Optional: 3mm pyrite beads and a red briolette (or any beads of your choice) I get mine from Casdans.

Step 1: Preparing the Wire

Start by taking the 8-inch segment of 12-gauge wire. Straighten it slightly, then use your chasing hammer to flatten the end of the wire. This will spread out the wire and create a paddled end. Remember to wear ear protection during this step as it can be quite loud. Once the wire is flattened, use a needle file or coarse sandpaper to smooth out any sharp edges.

Step 2: Creating the Swirl and Leaf Shape

With your round nose pliers, start forming a swirl with the flattened wire. Be patient, as the hammered wire can be tough to manipulate. Once your swirl is formed, measure 3 inches from the swirl end using a ruler. Bend the wire in half at the 3-inch mark to form the base of your leaf shape.

Next, place the wire over a round object like a dapping block or a large dowel and bend the wire around it to create the leaf's curve. Ensure that the swirl is positioned on one side of the leaf, as this is where the pin will go through.

To refine the leaf shape, use your chain nose pliers to pinch the wire where it meets, giving it a sharper angle. Then, flatten the opposite end of the wire using your chasing hammer, and form a small inward swirl at the end to complete the leaf frame.

Step 3: Shaping and Hammering

Once your basic leaf shape is complete, it’s time to add some dimension. Use your chasing hammer to carefully hammer the outside of the swirls and the leaf. This will give your piece texture and depth. After hammering, use your nylon mallet to gently curve the wire, adding a slight arc to the leaf so it sits nicely when worn.

Step 4: Sanding and Polishing

With the basic shape formed, you may notice tool marks on the wire. This is where sanding pads come in handy. Start with a 600-grit pad and work your way up to 3000 grit, smoothing out the surface and bringing out a lovely shine.

Step 5: Weaving the Wire

Now, it’s time to weave! Cut about 2-3 feet of 24-gauge wire and begin by wrapping it three times around the base of the leaf. Continue the weave in a figure-eight pattern, wrapping three times around each side. If you’re adding beads, thread them onto the wire as you go, incorporating them into the weave. Keep weaving until you reach the point where the leaf starts to taper.

Step 6: Adding Beads (Optional)

If you choose to add beads, thread them onto the wire as you continue the figure-eight weave. You can add as many or as few beads as you like, depending on your desired look. Once you’ve added all your beads, continue weaving without beads for a few more wraps to finish off the design. Secure the wire by wrapping it tightly around the base, then trim and tuck in the ends with chain nose pliers.

Step 7: Creating the Pin

To create the pin, take the 5-inch segment of 12-gauge wire. Flatten one end with your chasing hammer, then file down the sharp end and sand it smooth. Next, use your round nose pliers to form a closed swirl. This swirl will prevent the pin from sliding out when worn. 

Check the length of the pin by inserting it through the loop in your leaf. If it’s too long, trim it down to fit, then file and sand the end again.

Step 8: Adding the Decorative Chain

For an extra touch, you can create a decorative chain to dangle from the pin. Using 24-gauge wire, create small loops on either end of a bead, and link them together to form a chain. Add a briolette or other focal bead at the end. Attach the chain to the pin by opening the loop on the swirl, sliding the chain on, and then closing the loop securely.

Final Adjustments and Finishing

Once everything is assembled, make any final adjustments to the shape and fit of your hair pin. Ensure that the pin slides easily through the leaf loop and that the decorative chain hangs freely without tangling.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You’ve just completed your "Autumn Grace" Hair Pin, a beautiful and versatile accessory that can be worn in your hair, as a brooch, or to secure a scarf. This piece is perfect for the fall season and can be customized with different beads or left simple and elegant without them. If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to check out my other videos for more wire-wrapping and weaving projects.

Happy weaving, and see you in the next tutorial!

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I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful in creating your own beautiful jewelry. If you have any questions or want to share your work, don't hesitate to reach out.