How to Make Peace Sign Jewelry

Peace sign jewelry is more than just a fashion statement: it's a symbol of hope that is recognized by people around the world. Now you can share your vision of peace for the world by creating your own unique, wire-wrapped peace sign jewelry designs. Whether you desire a necklace or earrings, it's easy to make your own peace sign jewelry at home using supplies and tools available at craft or jewelry making supply stores.

Things You'll Need

• Silver or silver-tone hoop with hanging loop
• Silver or silver-tone wire
• Beads (optional)
• Round nose jewelry pliers
• Jewelry or wire cutters
• Jeweler's file (optional)
• Chalk
• Eye protection

Instructions

1. Wrap your wire several times around the hanging loop of your silver hoop, with about 3/4 of an inch hanging down on the short end. Take the short end of wire and wrap it tightly three times around the longer wire, using the jewelry pliers to push the wraps tightly against the base of the loop. Cut the remaining wire and use a jeweler's file to smooth the cut end, or simply push it flat against the wraps.

2. Bring the long wire to the opposite end of the hoop, making the wire taut. Add beads, if desired, before wrapping the wire around the hoop. You can add as many or as few beads as you'd like. Cut the end of the wire flush with the wraps and push it flat against them.

3. Cut the wire about 1 inch from the wire wrap and use this end to wrap around the taut wire to close. Trim the excess with wire cutters.

4. Mark a spot about 1/3 of the way up the hoop's central wire with chalk. Lay your wire over this spot, pulling the ends down slightly so that they form the rough shape of a peace sign. Allow about 1 inch of excess on either side of the hoop. Cut the wire to this length with wire cutters.

5. Use the tip of the round nose pliers to make a very small loop at the center of this new length of wire. Slip the loop onto the line marked with chalk on the center wire. Tighten the loop using your jewelry pliers or fingers, and wrap a few more times so the wire is secure and doesn't slide.

6. Bring one end of the wire down at a 30 to 40 degree angle and wrap the wire around the hoop. Add beads, if desired, before wrapping the wire. Repeat with the other end, forming a peace sign.

Tips & Warnings

• Using beads will give more stability to the design. Use seed or other small beads; try using rainbow colors for a retro look.

• If using as earrings, make a pair of peace signs and attach earwires to the hanging loops. For a necklace, simply insert a chain or cord through the hanging loop.

• Always wear eye protection, when cutting wire, as small pieces might come loose.

References

• Symbols.com: Symbol 24:7
• Wittyliving.com: Wire Wrapping