Create an 'Instant Memory Jogger' for Weaves, Techniques and Tips
I admit it. I am a voracious reader and 'super scavenger' of other people's good ideas'! Don't misunderstand - I don't infringe on other artist's designs - but I am definitely excited to learn a new special technique that I can use in my own work.
The only problem is....I may not remember the 'exact how-to' when I'm ready to use it! How frustrating!
The only problem is....I may not remember the 'exact how-to' when I'm ready to use it! How frustrating!
I'm not admitting to a memory problem, mind you.
It's just that we all deal with a massive amount of mental clutter in this fast-paced, technological world.
For me, the best solution is a simple retrieval method for everything I learn an index card file.
It's an amazing non-digital device that doesn't need a computer to find what I'm looking for!
I love lace knitting. That's not too surprising since I also love wire weaving, and the two are quite similar.
But I found that fumbling with standard 8½" x 11" instruction sheets was just plain annoying.
Most lace knitters work from charts filled with knitting symbols that indicate when to knit or purl a kind of shorthand that makes it easy to visualize the entire pattern at a glance.
To simplify things, I created an index card file filled with knitting patterns I've condensed to fit neatly on the cards.
Then came a lightbulb moment why not do the same with wirework patterns? So, I started another card file just for those.
It's just that we all deal with a massive amount of mental clutter in this fast-paced, technological world.
For me, the best solution is a simple retrieval method for everything I learn an index card file.
It's an amazing non-digital device that doesn't need a computer to find what I'm looking for!
I love lace knitting. That's not too surprising since I also love wire weaving, and the two are quite similar.
But I found that fumbling with standard 8½" x 11" instruction sheets was just plain annoying.
Most lace knitters work from charts filled with knitting symbols that indicate when to knit or purl a kind of shorthand that makes it easy to visualize the entire pattern at a glance.
To simplify things, I created an index card file filled with knitting patterns I've condensed to fit neatly on the cards.
Then came a lightbulb moment why not do the same with wirework patterns? So, I started another card file just for those.
Wirework 'How-to Memories' That I Collect:
Wire Weaving Patterns:
They're right at my fingertips. Every weaving pattern I've ever learned is there. Plus more patterns for the right gemstone.
A quick flick through my card box lets me start weaving immediately. No hunting through magazines, lost notebooks, or computer searches.
Tips & Techniques:
We learn so much from others. They generously share special secrets that make crafting easier.
I feel a small obligation to save and use that information for someday.
I save tips on wire gauges, tool use, design aids, the Mohs scale for gemstone hardness, and color charts for inspiration. Anything that makes me say, "Oh, what a good idea!" goes in my card file.
Jewelry Tutorials:
I previously wrote two articles on saving both print and video tutorials - in more useable forms. I use many of these same techniques to create my 'wire cards'. You'll probably find it helpful to refer to those articles before you begin creating your own card file system. "How to Copy, Save and Compact Tutorials" Click Here
They're right at my fingertips. Every weaving pattern I've ever learned is there. Plus more patterns for the right gemstone.
A quick flick through my card box lets me start weaving immediately. No hunting through magazines, lost notebooks, or computer searches.
Tips & Techniques:
We learn so much from others. They generously share special secrets that make crafting easier.
I feel a small obligation to save and use that information for someday.
I save tips on wire gauges, tool use, design aids, the Mohs scale for gemstone hardness, and color charts for inspiration. Anything that makes me say, "Oh, what a good idea!" goes in my card file.
Jewelry Tutorials:
I previously wrote two articles on saving both print and video tutorials - in more useable forms. I use many of these same techniques to create my 'wire cards'. You'll probably find it helpful to refer to those articles before you begin creating your own card file system. "How to Copy, Save and Compact Tutorials" Click Here
Getting Started
If you haven't created a 'copy and compact' document yet, you'll be greatly helped to print out the instructions of the articles mentioned above.
However, I'll briefly go over the basics here.
However, I'll briefly go over the basics here.
The photo above shows a finished page of step-by-step instructions.
It comes from a video by Natalie Trenh on making two matching open spirals from wire.
The video uses still photos with text. Pause it, use the Snipping Tool, and copy each section.
Paste and save the images and text into a document.
Set up your document with two columns.
Make each slightly narrower than the standard 4-inch-wide vertical index card. For easier reading, use 5" x 8" index cards.
Trim the printed columns carefully. Paste them onto your index cards.
Use a pencil to outline each section of text and photos.
Choose natural breaks in the content. If none exist, divide where it fits well for easy splicing later.
It's almost impossible to cut a perfectly straight line by hand.
Even small waves make text splicing tricky, especially if you trim a photo.
For cleaner results, use scissors with long blades. Make continuous cuts without a choppy motion.
Before cutting, draw a pencil line close to the text or photo.
Use a ruler or index card edge. Cut exactly along the line.
For the cleanest cuts, turn the paper, not the scissors.
Slowly close the blades as you move the paper along the line. This works for straight edges or curves.
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It comes from a video by Natalie Trenh on making two matching open spirals from wire.
The video uses still photos with text. Pause it, use the Snipping Tool, and copy each section.
Paste and save the images and text into a document.
Set up your document with two columns.
Make each slightly narrower than the standard 4-inch-wide vertical index card. For easier reading, use 5" x 8" index cards.
Trim the printed columns carefully. Paste them onto your index cards.
Use a pencil to outline each section of text and photos.
Choose natural breaks in the content. If none exist, divide where it fits well for easy splicing later.
It's almost impossible to cut a perfectly straight line by hand.
Even small waves make text splicing tricky, especially if you trim a photo.
For cleaner results, use scissors with long blades. Make continuous cuts without a choppy motion.
Before cutting, draw a pencil line close to the text or photo.
Use a ruler or index card edge. Cut exactly along the line.
For the cleanest cuts, turn the paper, not the scissors.
Slowly close the blades as you move the paper along the line. This works for straight edges or curves.
We upgraded this question to Perplexity Pro for free
Pro Subscribers get access to more advanced search and research. Upgrade to always get the most detailed answer.
Use a notebook-sized paper trimmer for straight cuts. It fits in a 3-ring binder and handles paper or thin fabrics quickly.
Glue trimmed columns to index cards with rubber cement for easy cleanup and flat results.
Squeegee flat with a straight edge.
Position columns to avoid punch holes.
Mark corners, glue, and secure edges when piecing.
Punch aligned holes for jump rings using a template if needed.
Glue trimmed columns to index cards with rubber cement for easy cleanup and flat results.
Squeegee flat with a straight edge.
Position columns to avoid punch holes.
Mark corners, glue, and secure edges when piecing.
Punch aligned holes for jump rings using a template if needed.
Store the "card book" in an index card box if not using it right away.
Organize by topic for quick access during projects.
These info cards are compact. They save workbench space yet are easy to read while following steps.
Keep a pen nearby for quick notes on tricky steps or better techniques.
Try this method to preserve your creative "memories."
It takes upfront effort but smooths projects and tidies your workspace.
Suggestions for Articles are Always Appreciated.
"Design With Your Heart - Craft With Your Hands"
--Linda Gale
Organize by topic for quick access during projects.
These info cards are compact. They save workbench space yet are easy to read while following steps.
Keep a pen nearby for quick notes on tricky steps or better techniques.
Try this method to preserve your creative "memories."
It takes upfront effort but smooths projects and tidies your workspace.
Suggestions for Articles are Always Appreciated.
"Design With Your Heart - Craft With Your Hands"
--Linda Gale
Materials
20 Gauge Half Round Half Hard Argentium .940 Silver Wire
H19-20HRH
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26 Gauge Round Half Hard Argentium .940 Silver Wire
H19-26H
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5 x8 Index cards
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Wire - variety of metals shapes and gauges
Craft glue stick
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WireJewelry - Ultimate Wire-Pliers Jewelry Pliers with Case, Set of 5
G15-20
- G15-20
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G7-30
- G7-30
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Beading Scissors
SCI-105.00
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Linda Gale
Other Articles by Linda Gale
creating a tutorial
How to Copy, Save, and Compact Tutorials
Three Ways to Keep Weaving Railroad Straight
How to Determine the Correct Height of a Bezel
Permanent Marker - the Tool You Love to Hate
How to Create a Print-out from a Video Tutorial
An Unusual Wire Weave
Necklaces - How to Choose the Correct Length
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