[TheRobb]

Depending upon the thickness of the wire, there is a particular "turns per inch" that you should not exceed.

Too few turns, and its not as effective.
Too many turns, the metal is stressed and becomes weak.

Definately get a pair of safety wire pliers, if you want it to look anything near decent.
Also, Position then "exit" holes, where the safety wire is tightened down onto the bolt sides, so that they appose each other, when the bolt is turned to the loosen position.

In other words, imagine the bolt working itself loose. If the safety wire exits on the other side of the bolt, in relationship to where the safety wire leads to, then it will allow the bolt to loosen 1/2 a turn.

-Robb