Knitting Goddess #9
Knit Wire Chokers
Materials: 20-26 gauge wire, beads, big link chain, lobster claws, jump rings & pliers
Pattern: Freestyle garter
Needles: Mostly 8s, though a few were on 10s and 11s
Started: September 2004
Finished: October 3, 2004
Fun to make and fun to wear, these chokers were pretty easy to knit but a bit hard on the hands. To make your own choker, simply string the beads on beforehand, cast on 5 stitches using the backward loop technique and just work in garter stitch until you reach your desired length, adding beads when you want to.
I bought a couple of sampler packs of different color wire, available at any craft store. Just keep in mind, the higher the gauge, the thinner the wire, the easier it is to manipulate. Also consider stretching out the work after you finish, otherwise it'll bunch strangely.
Here is a tutorial on how to add clasps (called findings in the beading world) to knit wire necklaces. Unless you want to use ribbon. Which is simpler.
Christina - Knit blogger for over a year now, tentative pattern designer, sporadic spinner, beader when I can afford it, a self proclaimed Knitting Goddess, who sometimes depends on the kindness of strangers (especially strangers who come bearing gifts of yarn) and a happy fiber enabler.