How to Wire Loop Beads

"Wire looping" means making loops in jewelry wire to attach the beads to other loops or to jewelry findings. When you make beading projects to wear or sell, professional looking loops are essential. It may take a lot of practice before you are satisfied with your wire looping skills.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cutting pliers
• Needle nose pliers
• Round nose pliers
• Beads
• Headpin or wire

1. Make a guide mark with pencil on the pliers about a quarter of the way from the tip.

2. Cut the headpin or wire about 3/8 inch above the bead. Bend the wire with needle nose pliers at a 90 degree angle so that it's flush against the bead. You'll use the tail of the wire for looping.

3. Grab the end of the wire with your pliers so that the wire is laying across the guide mark. Run your finger over the opposite side of the pliers. There shouldn't be any wire sticking out.

4. Roll the pliers away from you so that the wire begins to form a circle. When you get to the halfway point, remove the pliers. Move them to a comfortable position. Grip the wire in the same place and continue to turn the wire in a looping motion until the loop is closed.

5. Grasp the end of the loop with pliers. Twist the wire gently to the side to open it. Attach the wire to a jewelry finding or other loop. Turn the wire gently back into place.

Tips & Warnings

• It takes a lot of practice to make perfect loops. If you're having difficulty, practice on a plain piece of wire before you work with a beaded piece.