DIY Filigree Hoop Earring Tutorial

Last week I gave a review of a two wire jigs Prima Bead has available on their site and I told you I would be posting tutorials using both jigs.  Here is the very first of those tutorials.  This particular one is using the flat or regular jig.  It is a very versatile tutorial that can be easily customized to your tastes.  Your end result will be a lightweight and fashionable pair of earrings.

SPECIAL NOTE: DO NOT USE HALF-HARD WIRE.  Your pegs will snap.

Filigree Hoop Earrings

Materials Needed:
20 gauge silver plated copper wire or any wire you choose (I used 63815072 from Prima Bead)

Tools Required:

Wire Jig (34737052)

Round Nose Pliers

Flat Nose or Chain Nose Pliers

Marker

Emery Board or Wire Rounder

Skill Level: Beginner 

Craft Time: 20 - 30 minutes

Skills Required:

Form a Loop

Wire Jig

Instructions:

Measure, cut, and straighten two 10 inch pieces of wire.  Form a loop at one end of each piece of wire. Set aside.

Place 16 pegs into the jig in two rows of 8 diagonally across the jig. 

Place one piece of wire between the rows of pegs.  Slide the loop all the way against the pegs.  

 Begin wrapping the wire around each peg forming a series of figure 8s.









Gently slide form off the jig.

 

Press the loops closed using flat or chain nose pliers.  Adjust any odd shaped loops with round nose pliers.

Bend the end of the wire at a 90º angle flush with the last loop using flat or chain nose pliers.

Wrap form around the barrel of a marker.  Slip the tail into the end loop.

 Make a slight bend in the very end of the wire using flat or chain nose pliers. Trim if necessary.

Smooth wire end with emery board or wire rounder.

 Repeat for second wire.

Design Idea:  Wire wrap crystals or beads into the loops of the filigree for a little bling.