Throughout the Medieval and Renaissance periods, members of the aristocracy wore metal circlets to denote their power. Circlets were lighter than full crowns, making them easier to wear. They also sometimes held women’s headdresses in place. These circlets often contained precious stones and filigree decoration. Today, there isn’t much everyday use for wire circlets. However, if you want to add a final touch to a Renaissance Faire costume or dress like the princess you are for Halloween, a wire circlet may be what you need.
Things You'll Need:
- 20-Gauge Wire: One To Three Colors
- Round-Nosed Pliers
- Beading Wire (Optional)
- Wire Nips
- Crystals Or Gemstone Beads (Optional)
- Flexible Measuring Tape
Measure around your head with a flexible measuring tape and add about 4 inches to that measurement. For instance, if your head measures 13 inches around, your final measurement is 17 inches.
Cut three pieces of 20-gauge craft wire matching your final measurement. You may use just one color or combine up to three colors, depending on your tastes. Pick from traditional metallic tones or from metallic colors like purple, blue and green.
Braid the three wires together, leaving about 1 inch of unbraided wire at either end. Grip these unbraided portions with round-nosed pliers and twist them together, bending them into hooks.
Wear your new circlet by slipping the hooks together at the back of your head. This is a very simple circlet.
Add decoration to your circlet if desired with beading wire and beads. Weave beading wire through the braid, adding gemstones and crystal beads as desired.
Tip
For additional decoration, try silk flowers and satin ribbon.
