Wrapping a tiara band allows you to cover up the wires where the stems are attached to the band. It also helps to hold the stems in place and makes the tiara feel more substantial.
There are two main methods for covering a tiara band with beads. The first method involves wrapping the beads around the band, one at a time. The second method involves stringing all the beads onto a length of wire, and then attaching this wire to the band.
The first method is easier to use if you have already attached the stems to the band. Attaching the beads individually can be done carefully, in between the existing stems.
The second method is quicker and can look neater, but may be harder to use if the band already has stems attached.
It is a good idea to try both methods on a practice piece in order to find out which way works best for you.
Attaching the Wire to the Tiara Band
The first step is to attach the wrapping wire to the band. To do this put the end of your wire through the hole in one end of the tiara band. Lay a short length of the wire along the back of the band and then wrap the long length of wire around this short end to hold it in place.
If your tiara band doesn't have any holes at the end then do the same as above without threading the wire through the hole first.
Method 1 - Adding Beads One at a Time
Attach a long length of 0.4mm wire to the end of the band. Add a bead and wrap the wire around the band.
Wrap the wire around the band once more and then add another bead. Continue in this way along the band.
Method 2 - Pre-stringing the Beads onto a Length of Wire
Thread enough beads to cover the band onto 0.6mm wire. Attach the wire to both ends of the band. Cut a length of 0.4mm wire and secure it at one end.
Wrap the wire around the beads and the band, wrapping it once between each bead.