How to Make a Simple Loop

Simple loops (also called headpin loops and plain loops) are the most basic of wire techniques. This wire technique requires practice and patience to get the perfect loop. It is a valuable technique to master as you will use it in almost every wire wrapped project.

You will need:

1. a bead (give yourself a break while you are learning and use a good sized one 6-10mm is perfect)

2. round nose pliers

3. flush cutters

Place the bead on the headpin. Bend the headpin against the bead so that the wire forms a 90 degree angle.

Trim the wire to 5/8 inch.
Grasp the tip of the wire with your round nose pliers. The wire should be at the half way point on the jaws of the pliers.

Roll the wire into a loop by rotating your wrist. Stop bending when you have made a complete circle.

With one jaw of the round nose pliers inside the loop hold the bead and bend the wire to make the loop line up over the bead like a lollipop on a stick.

Make a mark on your pliers with a sharpie pen if you are making more than one loop. This will ensure that they are all the same size.
To open the loop hold the beaded pin in one hand.

Grasp the side of the loop with a pliers in the other hand.
Open the loop by moving one hand toward you and the other hand away from you.

Do not open the loop by spreading the ends apart as this will weaken the wire and destroy the round shape.

Make a second loop with a matching bead and headpin. Add your beads to a pair of earring hooks by opening and closing the loop as instructed above. Wear the earrings you have made to show off your new skill.

These photos show several projects where simple loops have been used to attach beads to a charm bracelet, a pair of earrings and as decorative embellishment to a pendant.