How to Make Wire-Wrapped Beaded Earrings

Make a pair of wire-wrapped earring to suit any occasion or outfit.

Wire-wrapping is the jewelry-making technique whereby a wire is inserted into a side-drilled bead and twisted above the bead to form a loop. A side-drilled bead has a hole that runs from one side to the other, rather than from the top to the bottom. Wire-wrapping allows the bead to be utilized in a pendant or earring piece. Make your own wire-wrapped earrings using this beginner wire-wrapping technique.

Things You'll Need

• 20-gauge jewelry wire
• 2 side-drilled beads
• Round-nose pliers
• Chain-nose pliers
• Wire cutters

Instructions

1. Cut a 5-inch length of wire with the wire cutters. Thread the bead into the center of the wire. Use your thumb and forefinger to press the two sides of the wire together so that they form an "X" over the top of the bead.

2. Place the round-nose pliers over both wires where they cross just above the bead. Clamp them in place. With the chain-nose pliers, bend one of the wires back to the vertical position.

3. Clamp the other wire (the one which is not in the vertical position) in the chain-nose pliers, and start to wind it around the vertical wire. The wound wires must be tightly spiraled around the vertical wire, with each spiral touching the last. If there is a gap between spirals, use your chain-nose pliers to close the gap by clamping the two spirals and pushing them together.

4. Make three complete spirals and then cut off any excess wire with the wire cutters. Use the chain-nose pliers to clamp down the end of the wire so that it is not sticking up. Release the bead from the round-nose pliers.

5. Use the chain-nosed pliers to bend the vertical wire at a 90 degree angle just above the wraps. Clamp the round-nose pliers onto the end of the wire, and turn the wire around the pliers to form a loop. Repeat with the other bead.

6. Thread shepherd's hooks through the hoops above the wire wrap to finish off your wire-wrapped earrings.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use any shape, size or color bead as long as it is side-drilled.

References

• Making Beaded Jewelry: Wire Wrapping Techniques for Beginners
• Scientific Chic: Wire Wrapping Techniques for Making Jewelry