Making a Simple Loop
Instructions
Step 1
Using round-nose pliers, grip the wire above the last bead added in your design or about 3/8 inch down from the end of a length of wire. Bend the wire to a 90 degree angle.
Forming the first loop:
Step 2
Grip the tip of the wire with the end of the round-nose pliers, leaving very little wire peeking through the barrels of the pliers.
Step 3
Rotate your wrist away from your body, while using the tip of your thumb on the other hand to push on the wire below the pliers, forming a loop. The placement of your thumb will help keep the angle sharp and the loop circular. Turn the wire into a loop.
Step 4
If necessary, adjust the loop so it is centered.
Forming the second loop:
Step 1
Slide bead(s) onto your created eyepin from Step 4.
Step 2
Using your bent-nose or chain-nose pliers, bend the wire to form a right angle as close to the bead as possible.
Step 3
Using side-cutting pliers or the cutting part of your rosary pliers, remove any excess wire, leaving approximately 1/4 inch of wire.
Step 4
Examine the tips of your round-nose or rosary pliers. Find the area that is approximately 1/8 inch away from the end. Depending on how fine or thick of a point your round-nose or rosary pliers have, you might need to adjust the distance in order to achieve the same size loop.
Step 5
Grab the very end of the wire at a point approximately 1/8 inch down from the tip of your round-nose or rosary pliers.
Step 6
Roll the wire around the tip of the round-nose or rosary pliers to form a complete circle centered over the wire stem.
Step 7
To open or close a loop, using your bent-nose or chain-nose pliers, gently lift the loop up from the closed side making a small space to insert your next loop. Do not pull the loop straight out or the round shape will be distorted.
Step 8
Insert another loop or earwire. Close the loop back to its closed position using your bent-nose or chain-nose pliers.
Step 9
To make sure the tip of the wire forms a secure loop, use your bent-nose or chain-nose pliers and gently squeeze the loop to ensure it is securely closed. Or if you have them, you can use a pair of loop-closing pliers. This ensures the loops won't separate while you're wearing your design.
Helpful hint: to make the piece look more finished, make your loop so it closes on the same side as your original loop when using eyepins.
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