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A wrapped wire loop is a technique used to make the small loop that a link, or project is connected to the finding by. Often you will see them in earrings, on dangles that have been attached to a necklace, and even at the end of necklaces when cones are used to make a multi strand necklace. It is important to know how to make good wrapped wire loops because these are stronger then just plain loops. They help hold a project together and it is particularly important if the piece you are trying to hold together is heavy. A neat and well wrapped loop will also look more finished and refined then a sloppy one.

If this is an area you really struggle with even after following the directions carefully, it may be helpful to get a book that will show you step by step with pictures included to help you along the way. This is an area I really struggled with, so don't feel bad if you have a hard time getting the hang of having the wire lay neatly below the loop, just keep practicing and grab yourself a book. One that I own that has a great step-by-step instruction page, complete with pictures is Chic & Easy Beading Volume 2. It is a Bead and Button Book and costs about $20.

To begin you practice of wrapped wire loops start with a small project, such as earrings that are simple drops. Take a eye pin and add a bead. For this project you will need chain nose pliers and round nose pliers, along with wire cutters.

1) Make sure you have at least 1 1/4" of wire above your bead (or cone if doing a different project). Use your chain nose pliers and position them grasping the wire above the bead. This is going to help you form the neck of the wrapped loop and will actually be the place you will wrap the wire around after you have formed the loop. Bend the wire (using your fingers) at a ninety degree angle.

2) Place your round nose pliers on the bent wire (the portion that is at a 90 degree angle) so that it butts up against the "neck" of the piece. Using your fingers wrap your wire around the nose of your pliers. This will make a loop.

3) Reposition your round nose pliers so that the bottom jaw is placed into the forming loop. Finish wrapping your wire around the bottom jaw. You should now see the loop portion of the wrapped wire loop.

4) Position the chain nose pliers so that they are holding the loop.

5) Wrap the wire around the "neck" that you created earlier. You want your wire to look nice, so you will want to go slowly and get it so that each layer is up against the next with out odd looking overlaps.

6) Trim the excess wire and press the cut end close to your wrapped wire using your chain nose pliers.

That is the perfect wrapped wire loop. Work with it awhile and you will soon be using beautiful wrapped loops in your projects. Be careful with your wrapping. It isn't hard to make it look sloppy instead of neat and finished. No matter what though, don't forget to have fun!

Learn more about this author, Danelle Karth.
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