Wire clasps are great for making your necklace or bracelet because they’re simple, easy to make, and affordable. All you need is a wire and a hold of your choice. You can even use an old broken earring as the clasp!
Wire clasps are great for making your necklace or bracelet because they’re simple, easy to make, and affordable. All you need is a wire and a hold of your choice. You can even use an old broken earring as the clasp!
Simple Tips to Make Wire Clasps for Jewelry
Wire clasps are very versatile in that you can use them with any material. For example, this technique will work well for you if you have fabric that needs closure but doesn’t have buttonholes or zippers. You could also use wire clasps to secure an elastic waistband on a skirt or pants; all you need is some sturdy wire and two end caps (like those found at the hardware store). The possibilities are endless when it comes to jewelry and clothing closures, so try this technique out!
To make a wire clasp you’ll need the following:
- wire
- pliers- preferably jewelry pliers (they’re more nuanced, so they’re easier to work with)
- a clasp of your choice. It can be as simple as an old earring that broke or as complex as something you found in the craft store. Choose what appeals to you!
Step 1:
Using the pliers, find the end of your wire. Bend it around itself to form a loop.
Step 2:
Bend your wire so that it is perpendicular to its original position and coming up into the center of your original loop. This will be the piece that attaches to your fabric or jewelry chain. Make sure you leave yourself enough space for your circle and chain.
Step 3:
Wrap the wire around itself so that it forms a smooth line, just as if you were creating a bangle bracelet from jewelry wire. Make sure to make the end perpendicular to your wrap point to keep the shape sturdy.
Step 4:
Lastly, use your pliers (preferably jewelry pliers) to straighten out your wire and make it friendly and even.
Step 5:
Using the wire clasps is just as easy- you’ve already done all of the hard work! Just attach your clasp, chain, or elastic, and you’re set! Some trial and error go along with working with wire; I can’t tell you how to make the perfect clasp because it will be unique to your materials and taste.
Step 6:
As you can see, this is an example of a wire clasp that’s made from jewelry wire. The earring used as the clasp has been broken for quite some time now- maybe five years? I like to wear this clasp with long necklaces so that I can see the earring part. It adds a nice touch!
When you know how to make wire jewelry, you’ll be able to create your unique pieces of art. Practice makes perfect, though; for example, don’t give up if you mess up getting the loop or wrap right. It can take a few tries to get it right, but you’ll figure it out!
Conclusion
When you know how to make wire jewelry, you can make many styles of pieces. Making your jewelry with simple tools is a great way to learn about the materials and their characteristics and learn different techniques in the craft.