JEWELRY: Introduction to Making Wire Jewelry
Instructor: Dalena Watson
 
WHEN: Saturday, July 11, 2026
TIME: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
SKILL LEVEL: No experience needed
AGE: Adults 18+
TYPE OF EVENT: 1-day workshop
SUPPLIES: All supplies are included 
PRICE: $50
INSTRUCTOR: Dalena Watson, arizonadesertgems@gmail.com 
Owner, jewelry designer, and maker of Arizona Desert Gems since 2012, 
Member of Ocotillo Artists Group, and Artists of the Superstitions
Showing at Casa de Baca Gallery in Florence, AZ, year-round
CLASS SIZE: min 2, max 6
 
Intro to Wire Jewelry Making
Have you wanted to start making your own jewelry but felt overwhelmed by all the wire, tools, and techniques? This beginner-friendly class is designed to help you confidently get started with wire jewelry making.
 
During this 3-hour class, students will learn:
• How to choose the right wire for jewelry projects
• The differences between wire gauges and wire types
• Essential tools used in wire jewelry making
• How to use and better understand tools you may already own
• How to create ear wires using three different techniques
• How to make simple loops and wrapped loops
• Basic finishing techniques for professional-looking jewelry
Students will create and take home three finished pairs of earrings using a selection of glass and stone beads.
 
Supplies Included:
• Copper wire
• Use of tools, hammers, and bench blocks
• Files and finishing tools
• Printed handouts and reference materials
• A variety of glass and stone beads (selection may vary from photos)
 
Additional wire and beads will be available for purchase during class.
 
Optional Items to Bring:
• Notebook and pen
• 6–12” ruler
• Round nose pliers, nylon jaw pliers, flush cutters
• Chasing hammer or nylon hammer
• Bench block
• 20-gauge half-hard wire
• Favorite beads with .85mm–1.2mm holes
• Magnifying glasses, reading glasses, or OptiVisor
• Wig Jig or Thing-a-ma-jig
This class is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a refresher on basic wire jewelry techniques.