Don’t know what to do with excess chicken wire? Don’t worry, we’ve got lots of creative ideas for it not to go to waste!
There’s always something you can make out of chicken wires, no matter how little or how much you have left in storage.
You do not have to be a farmer to find uses for this material. Because it’s galvanized wire, it holds up well against the elements. You’ll often unearth pieces used decades ago if you dig around old homestead sites.
Chicken wire is a type of wire mesh used most often for chicken coops, but it has a variety of other uses as well. It’s also known as poultry netting or hardware cloth, and it’s made from thin, flexible wire that’s formed into a hexagonal or diamond-shaped mesh. Chicken wire is available in a variety of gauges, from very fine mesh to heavy-duty fencing.
You can use chicken wire to upcycle old furniture, mirrors, windows, and picture frames. Securing flowers and other accents to a chicken wire is a breeze, so you can change your decorative accents each season. The material is equally good for larger projects like lampshades and smaller ones like jewellery organizers.
7 common usage for chicken wire
- Building chicken coops
- Fencing in gardens to keep out pests
- Building chicken coops
- Hanging pictures or other wall decors
- Making wreaths
- Storing firewood
- Craft projects
Besides durability, chicken wire boasts flexibility, too – and that makes them perfect for a DIY craft!
Most of these craft projects can easily be done by anyone while some would be a great challenge to improve your creative craft skills. :)
Contents
9 Cute Chicken Wire Craft Ideas
Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend project or a unique way to spruce up your home décor, chicken wire crafts are a great option! There are tons of different ways to use chicken wire to create beautiful and useful items for your home. Here are just a few of our favourite chicken wire craft ideas:
Get these great ideas from our list below and be inspired to create your craft with chicken wires!
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1. Candle Lantern
Searching for a unique design to light up your home? Why not try a DIY candle lantern! These charming lanterns are easy to make and add a touch of rustic charm to any room.
To make your own chicken wire lantern, start by cutting a piece of chicken wire to fit around a glass jar. Next, use a hot glue gun to attach the chicken wire to the jar. Once the chicken wire is in place, insert a candle into the jar. That’s it!
If you want to get really creative, you can decorate your chicken wire lanterns with paint or fabric. Just let your imagination run wild!
2. Floral Wall Sconces
Add some rustic charm to your home with these DIY floral wall sconces! They’re easy to make, and they’ll add a touch of country elegance to any room.
Simply cut a piece of chicken wire to the desired size for your sconce. Then, bend the wire into a cylinder shape and secure it with floral wire. Lastly, add your fake flowers, and you’re done!
These sconces are perfect for adding a bit of country charm to any room, and they make great gifts, too!
3. Pendant Lighting
Whether you’re looking for a rustic touch or a bit of industrial chic, DIY pendant lighting is a great way to add some rustic style to your space. These fixtures are perfect for any room in your home, from the kitchen to the living room. And they’re easy to make yourself, so you can save money and get exactly the look you want.
4. Custom Lampshade
Looking for a fun and unusual way to add some personality to your home décor? A DIY custom lampshade is a great way to do just that! This decor is surprisingly easy to make, and you can really let your creativity shine by choosing your own unique design and colour scheme. Plus, it’s a great way to upcycle an old lampshade into something new and exciting.
So if you’re looking for a lampshade that’s both stylish and functional, this is the perfect option for you!
5. Heart Decor
This Valentine’s Day, show your loved ones how much you care by making your own heart decor. With just a few simple supplies and imagination, you can create a beautiful and unique decoration that will fill your home with love.
This project is relatively easy and inexpensive, and it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your holiday decor.
6. Animal Sculptures
This project is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors and working with their hands.
All you need is some chicken wire, a pair of pliers, and a bit of creativity. You can make any kind of animal sculpture you like – we’ve seen everything from chickens and pigs to dogs and koala bears.
7. Jewelry Holder
Is your jewellery in need of organization and display? Turn an ordinary jewellery holder into a chic, rustic one with this easy DIY project. This DIY jewellery holder is the perfect solution! It’s easy to make and can be customized to fit any space. All you need is some chicken wire and a few other supplies.
8. Memo Board
This DIY memo board is a great way to organize your thoughts and keep track of important information. It’s easy to make, and you can customize it to fit your needs.
9. Fruit Holder
Have you ever wondered how to display fruit in a fun and creative way?
Why not try making your own fruit holder? This DIY project is easy to make and can be customized to fit any space. Plus, it’s a great way to show off your fresh fruit in a unique and stylish way.
Simply measure the space where you want to place your fruit holder. Cut a piece of chicken wire to fit that space. Shape the basket by using a pliers and cutter. Then add your fruits or eggs inside. That’s it! 😉
Tips for Working with Chicken Wire
Chicken wire is not just for fencing; it’s a versatile material that can be used in many craft projects. From creating rustic home decor to making functional art pieces, chicken wire offers endless possibilities. However, working with chicken wire can be tricky due to its flexibility and sharp edges. Here are some tips to help you safely and effectively use chicken wire in your crafts.
Safety First
Safety should always be your top priority when embarking on a chicken wire craft project. This versatile material, while great for various creative endeavors, comes with its set of hazards, primarily from its sharp edges and potential for causing scratches or more serious injuries. To ensure a smooth and safe crafting experience, here are some expanded safety tips specifically tailored for working with chicken wire.
Wear Protective Gloves
Before diving into your chicken wire craft, it’s crucial to wear gloves designed to handle sharp materials. These gloves will shield your hands from the chicken wire’s edges, which can cut skin easily. Opt for gloves made from thick material or those specifically designed for wire handling for the best protection.
Long Sleeves and Safety Glasses
In addition to gloves, wearing long sleeves can provide an extra layer of protection against scratches and cuts. Chicken wire can snag or catch on skin and clothing, so durable fabrics are recommended. Safety glasses are another essential piece of protective gear. They protect your eyes from any wire pieces that may snap back while being cut or shaped. Chicken wire crafts require attention to detail, and protecting your eyes ensures that you can focus on your project without risk.
Protective Clothing
Beyond long sleeves, consider wearing thick or heavy-duty clothing that covers your body well. This is especially important when working with large pieces of chicken wire that can brush against your torso, arms, or legs. Durable clothing acts as a barrier between the wire and your skin, reducing the risk of injury.
Work in a Safe Environment
Ensure your workspace is well-lit and free of unnecessary clutter. A clean and organized area will help prevent accidents, especially when you’re manipulating large pieces for your chicken wire crafts. A well-lit space also helps you see clearly, reducing the chance of making a mistake that could lead to injury.
First Aid Kit
Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Keep a first aid kit nearby with supplies to treat cuts or scratches. The kit should include antiseptic wipes, bandages, and gloves. Knowing you have the means to treat a minor injury quickly can provide peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Tools
Selecting the appropriate tools is a critical step in any chicken wire craft project. The right tools not only make the job easier but also ensure a cleaner, more precise finish, and enhance safety during the process. Here’s a deeper look into the essential tools for working with chicken wire and how they can be utilized effectively.
Wire Cutters
Wire cutters are indispensable for cutting chicken wire to the desired size and shape for your craft project. Opt for a durable pair designed to handle the gauge of chicken wire you’re using. Sharp wire cutters will make clean cuts, reducing the likelihood of jagged edges that can lead to injury. For thicker gauges, consider heavy-duty wire cutters or bolt cutters to make the task easier.
Needle-Nose Pliers
Needle-nose pliers are perfect for bending and twisting the wires of your chicken wire craft. Their long, thin shape allows for precision work, enabling you to manipulate small pieces of wire with ease. These pliers can also help in securing the ends of the chicken wire, ensuring they are tightly twisted together to maintain the structure of your craft.
Wooden or Metal Frames
Using a wooden or metal frame as a guide for shaping chicken wire crafts can greatly simplify your project. Whether you’re creating a sculpture, a decorative piece, or functional items like lampshades or baskets, frames provide a solid base to work on. They help maintain the shape of your craft as you attach and mold the chicken wire, resulting in a more polished and professional-looking finish.
Gloves and Safety Equipment
While not tools for manipulating chicken wire crafts directly, gloves and safety equipment are essential tools for ensuring your safety. As mentioned, gloves protect your hands from sharp edges, while safety glasses protect your eyes from flying wire pieces. Always include these in your toolkit to prevent injuries.
Measuring Tape and Markers
Accuracy is key in chicken wire crafts, making measuring tape and markers crucial tools. Use them to measure and mark the chicken wire before cutting, ensuring that your pieces fit perfectly in your project. This step is especially important when creating pieces that need to fit together precisely or when working on a larger installation.
Cutting Techniques
Mastering the art of cutting chicken wire is essential for any chicken wire craft project. Efficient cutting techniques not only save material but also contribute to the overall success and neatness of your work. Here’s how you can refine your cutting approach to enhance your chicken wire crafts.
Plan Your Cuts Carefully
Before making any cuts, take the time to plan out your chicken wire crafts. Sketch your project and note the dimensions needed. This planning phase helps in visualizing the end product and determining the most efficient way to cut the chicken wire to minimize waste.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
This age-old adage holds true for chicken wire crafts. Double-check your measurements before cutting to avoid mistakes that could lead to unnecessary waste. Use a measuring tape and a marker to accurately mark the areas to be cut. Ensuring you have the exact size needed for your project from the start can save time and resources.
Leave Extra Wire for Attachments
When cutting chicken wire, leaving a bit of extra wire at the edges can be incredibly helpful. This extra wire can be used to secure the piece to another piece of chicken wire or a frame, providing additional stability to your craft. Approximately an inch of extra wire should suffice for most projects, allowing for enough material to twist and tie off securely.
Use the Right Cutting Tool
Select a cutting tool that is appropriate for the gauge of chicken wire crafts you are working with. A sharp pair of wire cutters can make clean, precise cuts, reducing the effort needed and improving the quality of your work. For thicker gauges, consider using a bolt cutter to make the job easier.
Smooth the Edges
After cutting, use pliers to bend back any sharp points or edges. This step is crucial for safety and will give your project a more finished look. Smoothing out the edges also makes it easier to complete any chicken wire crafts.
Recycle Excess Wire
Keep any scraps or excess pieces of chicken wire from your cuts. These can be useful for smaller projects or for making repairs in the future. By recycling excess wire, you ensure that nothing goes to waste, aligning with sustainable crafting practices.
Shaping and Molding
The flexibility of chicken wire is one of its most appealing features for crafters. This malleability makes it perfect for creating a wide range of shapes and sculptures, from simple decorative items to intricate art pieces. Here’s how to master the art of shaping and molding for your chicken wire crafts.
Start Simple
If you’re new to chicken wire crafts, begin with basic shapes. Projects like spheres, cubes, or simple animal forms can help you get a feel for the material’s behavior. Starting simple gives you the foundation to understand how chicken wire bends, folds, and holds shape, which is crucial for tackling more complex projects later.
Gradually Increase Complexity
As you become more comfortable with basic shapes, challenge yourself with more complex designs. Consider creating detailed animal sculptures, elaborate decorative pieces, or even life-sized figures. Each project will build your skills and confidence, allowing you to explore the full potential of chicken wire crafts.
Use Your Hands and Tools Effectively
Your hands are your primary tools for shaping chicken wire craft, but for finer adjustments and securing the wire, pliers become indispensable. Use your hands to gently bend and curve the chicken wire into the desired shape. Needle-nose pliers are excellent for making small adjustments and for twisting wire ends together to secure the shape. Remember to wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges during this process.
Securing Shapes with Additional Wire
In some cases, your chicken wire craft may require additional support to maintain its shape. Use spare pieces of chicken wire or separate wire pieces to reinforce the structure. These can be twisted around the main framework to add stability and strength, especially in areas that bear more weight or are more intricate.
Create a Frame for Complex Structures
For particularly complex or large sculptures, consider using a frame as a base. This frame can be made from wire, wood, or metal and serves as a skeleton for your chicken wire craft. The frame provides guidance for your design, making it easier to achieve the desired shape and ensuring the stability of the final piece.
Practice and Patience
Shaping and molding chicken wire into art requires practice and patience. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Each project offers a learning experience, helping you improve your technique and expand your creative possibilities.
Joining Pieces Together
Joining pieces together is a fundamental skill in creating chicken wire crafts, especially as projects increase in size or complexity. A secure and stable connection between pieces of chicken wire is crucial for the structural integrity and longevity of your craft. Here’s how to ensure your joins are as strong as the rest of your project.
Overlap Edges for a Strong Bond
When joining two pieces of chicken wire, ensure that you overlap the edges by at least an inch or more, depending on the project’s requirements. This overlap provides a sufficient area for the wires to intertwine, creating a stronger bond. The amount of overlap may need to be adjusted based on the specific demands of your chicken wire craft, such as the weight it must support or the tension it will be under.
Twist Wires Together Using Pliers
After overlapping the edges, use pliers to twist the wires together tightly. This action secures the pieces in place. For a firm join, grab the ends of the overlapping wires with your pliers and twist them around each other until they are tightly wound. This technique is particularly effective because it utilizes the strength of the chicken wire itself to create a durable connection.
Use Additional Wire if Needed
In some cases, especially if the overlap is minimal or the area requires extra reinforcement, adding additional pieces of wire can enhance the stability of the join. Cut a small length of wire and use it to tie the two pieces of chicken wire together at several points along the join. This method is like stitching the pieces together, providing extra security.
Check for Gaps and Weaknesses
After joining the pieces, inspect the connection closely for any gaps or loose wires that could compromise the stability of your chicken wire craft. If any weaknesses are found, use additional wire to reinforce these areas. Ensuring that every join is robust will contribute to the overall durability of your project.
Smooth Out Sharp Edges
Joining pieces of chicken wire often results in sharp ends protruding from the twisted wires. Use your pliers to bend these sharp ends down, or cut them off with wire cutters. Covering them with tape or using a sealant can also prevent injury and give your project a more finished appearance.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like all aspects of chicken wire crafts, becoming proficient at joining pieces together takes practice. Experiment with different techniques and materials to find what works best for your projects. As you gain experience, you’ll develop a sense of how to create joins that are not only strong but also contribute to the aesthetic of your craft.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to tackle any chicken wire craft project with confidence. Whether you’re making a decorative piece for your home or a functional item, chicken wire offers a unique medium to express your creativity.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of working with chicken wire for craft projects is a rewarding journey that blends creativity with practical skills. From ensuring safety first to selecting the right tools, cutting, shaping, molding, and joining pieces together, each step is crucial for the successful completion of chicken wire crafts.
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