Three Different Ways to Finish Memory Wire Ends

Memory wire is a much-loved jewelry making technique that allows you to quickly and easily make bracelets, necklaces, rings, and even things like wine charms and Christmas ornaments. The idea of memory wire is that it is a sturdy steel wire that holds its shape, even when stretched out to add beads onto or to wrap around the wrist. It’s fun to play with bead combinations on the wire, sometimes adding beads randomly or in a color block or repetitive pattern. Memory wire is very easy to use and a great project for beginners. The memory wire itself is straightforward to use but you do have several choices for how you want to finish the ends. Each finishing technique will give a slightly different look and feel to the design. Below are various ways you can finish your memory wire ends.

Note: Before we start, it is important to know that you should never cut memory wire with your regular jewelry making cutters. It can cause damage to them. It is best to use a pair of memory wire cutters.

One of the very easiest ways to finish memory wire ends is to create a simple wire loop at each end. This finishing technique only requires a pair of round nose pliers and does not require any additional supplies to be purchased. It's very easy to do and creates a little loop at the end. You can leave that loop as-is, and just have it as a decoration, or you can attach a charm or dangle to it. 

Featured Video: How to Make a Simple Wire Loop on Memory Wire

Another way to finish memory wire ends is to glue on a specially made half-drilled end cap. These memory wire ends come in a variety of sizes and finishes and are glued on, usually using G S Hypo Cement or E6000 glue. This create a little ball at the end of your wire which stops the beads from sliding off. It is a nice option if you do not want to hang a dangle or charm. 

Featured Video: How to Use Memory Wire Glue In Ends

Similar to memory wire ends are finial beads. They are also half-drilled and create a little ball at the end. You glue them in the same way but the difference is these are glass and not metal. They come in a huge variety of colors and you can match the color to your design or even use the finial beads elsewhere in your design. 

Featured Video: How to Finish Memory Wire Ends with Finial Beads

For some design inspiration, check out all our memory wire projects and learn more about how to use memory wire with our product guide: Memory Wire 101: Using Memory Wire in Jewelry Making.