Twisted Wire Bail For Earrings

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You Will Need (6 things)

Steps (3 steps, 10 minutes)

1. 1

   Steps to Create a Twisted Wire Bail for Earrings

   Start with some 18-gauge wire and cut about a 2-inch length with the flush cutters. As your skill progresses, less wire will be needed, which will cut down on waste and cost. However, it is better to err on the side of caution and start with extra wire length to leave room for any mishaps. Extra wire can be snipped off the final product, but not enough wire will leave a project unfinished. Make a bail using the round-nose pliers to keep a symmetrical loop. Wrap the extra, shorter length of wire around the loop about two to three times. I like to keep my wire snug, but some prefer a more abstract look. This element can be experimented with as your abilities progress. However, be conscientious of the wire’s fragility. Any spot where the pliers apply too much pressure may result in wire breakage.

2. 2

   Then, slip the wire through the drilled sea glass with the bail resting against the back side. The bail should lie parallel to the piece of sea glass so that a circle can be seen from the front. This will help the earring pendant to face the proper direction once it is in the earwire. Take the leftover wire from the longer side and wrap it around the loop two to three times to form a sturdy connection. Extra wire may need to be snipped. Then finish the bail by taking chain-nose pliers to tighten the wire ends in toward the bail. The wire may need some finessing adjustments to clean up the look and security of the bail.

3. 3

   Open the earwire enclosures at the base with chain-nose pliers. Then, slip the newly created bails into the earwire loops and close.