Have you tried this bead combination, it's also very interesting. You can use any wire size, any beads (have hole) you have. Large diameter wire will be more difficult to manipulate, but will increase ...

Soft copper wire : 20 gauge ( wire diameter 0.8mm ) : 2 x 5cm ( 2 inch) for each knot link 20 gauge ( wire diameter 0.8mm ) : 2cm ( 0.8 inch) for each bead link beads : 4mm, 6mm ( abacus crystal ) ...