How to Make a Head Pin for Wire Jewelry

Anyone who has spent any time at all creating their own wire jewelry knows that purchasing head pins, jump rings, clasps, hooks and other accessories quickly add up in price. However, with a few simple tips and some inexpensive supplies, you can learn to make your own head pins for a fraction of the cost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Straight pins
• Beads of various sizes
• Wire cutters
• Needle nose pliers

1. Purchase straight pins used for sewing instead of head pins. You can select plain straight pins with a flat end for a streamline look, or you can choose to purchase pins with colored or even pearled beads which add a nice accent to your wire jewelry creations.

2. Slide your desired beads onto the straight pin. If you have selected a flat headed straight pin, you will have to make sure that the hole in your bead is small enough that it does not fall off of the end. If the hole is too large, you can slide a tiny bead on first to hold the larger bead in place.

3. Snip off the sharp end of the straight pin when you have added all of your chosen beads and then grip the end with your needle nose pliers. Twist the wire of your new head pin around the nose of your pliers to create a loop.

4. Use your new head pin technique to create unique wire jewelry creations such as bracelet charms, necklace pendants or even earrings. Additionally, you can add various beaded head pins to a larger loop to create chandelier wire earrings.

[bollard020202]

on 6/21/2009 I make beaded jewelry and have for many years. This is terrible advice. Base metal has many drawbacks and I would not suggest anyone use sewing needles in place of actual beading supplies. If your budget does not allow gold filled/plated or sterling headpins at least buy your base metal supplies from a trusted website or local bead store. PLEASE don't make the mistake of just "Snip off the sharp end". Cutting metal can cause the excess to fly off possibly hurting someone near or by a pet or child stepping on the piece. The proper technique is to shield the excess with your other hand as you cut it off. Thus keeping it on your bead mat or at least on your surface. Oh and you simply don't "Twist the wire" to form a loop. Wire wrapping is the most secure method of forming a loop. A simple loop is another method but not by "twisting" the wire. This advice is just wrong and bad all the w...

[DOC808HI]

on 12/5/2008 This is an AWESOME suggestion! Thank you!