Enchanted Butterfly Necklace Tutorial: Soflex Wire Beaded Necklace

Updated at: 30/01/2025

Prepare to be captivated by the ethereal beauty of this enchanted butterfly necklace! This tutorial will guide you through the creation of a stunning, beaded necklace using versatile Soflex wire, transforming simple materials into a delicate and eye-catching piece of jewelry. The shimmering Soflex wire provides a flexible yet strong foundation, perfectly suited for shaping the intricate wings of our butterfly. You'll learn to meticulously weave beads to create a textured and vibrant design, resulting in a necklace that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to make. The process is perfect for both beginners and experienced crafters seeking a beautiful project.

This tutorial offers a clear, step-by-step approach to crafting this magical accessory, from preparing your materials to securing the final clasp. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or a charming addition to your own jewelry collection, this enchanted butterfly necklace is sure to delight. So gather your supplies and let's begin creating this whimsical masterpiece!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Size 11 seed beads
  • Soflex wire (medium)
  • Pink tourmaline
  • Clasp
  • Head pins
  • 16mm laser-edged butterfly beads
  • Check glass beads (4mm & 7mm)
  • 4mm Austrian crystal (Tanzanite)
  • 2x2s
  • Jump rings
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp wire cutters to cut Soflex wire; avoid breaking it with your hands as this can create sharp edges.
  • Be mindful of small beads – keep them away from young children to prevent choking hazards.
  • Soflex wire can be slightly flexible. Use pliers to help create and maintain the desired shape of your butterfly and ensure secure bead placement.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wire

    • Cut two 26-inch lengths of Soflex wire.
    Cut two 26-inch lengths of Soflex wire.
    Prepare the Wire

  2. Create the First Strand

    • Begin with a 7mm bead, add three seed beads, a 4mm Austrian crystal, three more seed beads, then pass back through the 7mm bead to create a halo.
    • Add a 4mm check glass spacer bead, another 7mm bead, and repeat the seed bead/crystal/seed bead pattern, passing back through the 7mm bead.
    • Repeat step 3 five more times to complete the first row, ensuring even spacing.
    Repeat step 3 five more times to complete the first row, ensuring even spacing.Repeat step 3 five more times to complete the first row, ensuring even spacing.Repeat step 3 five more times to complete the first row, ensuring even spacing.
    Create the First Strand

  3. Create the Second Strand with Charm Loops

    • Start with a 7mm bead, add 11 seed beads, and pass back through the 7mm bead to form a loop for attaching charms.
    • Add a 4mm bead, 7mm bead, and repeat the seed bead pattern, creating another loop for charms on each side of the central loop.
    Add a 4mm bead, 7mm bead, and repeat the seed bead pattern, creating another loop for charms on each side of the central loop.Add a 4mm bead, 7mm bead, and repeat the seed bead pattern, creating another loop for charms on each side of the central loop.
    Create the Second Strand with Charm Loops

  4. Attach Butterfly Charms

    • Attach 16mm butterfly charms to jump rings and attach the jump rings to the loops on the second strand.
    Create dangles: Attach 16mm butterfly charms to jump rings and attach the jump rings to the loops on the second strand.
    Attach Butterfly Charms

  5. Assemble the Necklace Strands

    • Stack the two strands together, adding check glass beads and seed beads to connect the two strands, maintaining even spacing. Add more Soflex wire as needed to achieve desired length.
    Assemble the necklace: Stack the two strands together, adding check glass beads and seed beads to connect the two strands, maintaining even spacing. Add more Soflex wire as needed to achieve desired length.
    Assemble the Necklace Strands

  6. Attach the Clasp

    • Add 2x2s to each end, then attach the clasp using additional jump rings if needed. Trim excess Soflex wire.
    Attach the clasp: Add 2x2s to each end, then attach the clasp using additional jump rings if needed. Trim excess Soflex wire.
    Attach the Clasp

Read more: Elegant Russian Spiral Necklace Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Soflex wire acts as a needle, eliminating the need to pick up beads with fingers.
  • The halo created around the larger beads acts as a bead stopper.
  • Use round nose pliers or a looper tool for creating even loops.
  • Bead Stoppers can help prevent seed beads from sliding off.
  • Adjust spacing as needed to maintain evenness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Spacing

Reason: Inconsistent tension while wrapping the wire around the beads leads to gaps or overcrowding.
Solution: Maintain consistent, gentle tension on the wire throughout the beading process.

2. Wire Twisting or Kinking

Reason: Applying too much force or making sharp turns while working with the Soflex wire can cause it to twist or kink, affecting the necklace's appearance and flexibility.
Solution: Work slowly and use smooth, controlled movements to avoid abrupt bends or excessive tension.

3. Insecure Wire Connections

Reason: Improperly securing the wire ends or using insufficient wraps can lead to the necklace coming apart.
Solution: Securely wrap the wire ends multiple times and use wire glue or crimp beads for added durability.

FAQs

What type of beads work best with Soflex wire for this necklace?
Seed beads, particularly size 11/0 or 8/0, are ideal for creating detailed butterfly wings with Soflex wire. Their small size allows for intricate designs and a smooth, finished look.