I often make custom earrings to match specific shirts & outfits.  And after the initial purchase of my pliers & wire cutters, the actual bead & metal supplies are fairly inexpensive.  I can often make a set of earrings for $1 or $2, depending on how expensive the beads are. These step-by-step instructions (in video & written/photo format) are designed to teach a beginner how to make earrings.  So be brave & post a photo to our Flickr pool to share how yours turn out!

Supplies:  3 in 1 round-nose pliers, wire cutters, your choice of beads, 2 ear wires, 2 head pins, and (optional) a “measuring bead”* (or a ruler & thin-point sharpie).  

*The measuring bead is something you can use for measuring how much wire to cut off your head pins, and it’s an easy way to make sure the wire you use for your loops is consistent for each earring.  You won’t find it at the store.  You need to choose a any bead that’s the right size (1cm in length, measuring the way the hole runs through it) & keep it with your beading supplies.  If you don’t want to use a measuring bead, use a ruler to measure 1 cm (3/8″) & use a thin-tipped sharpie to mark the cut spot. 

Instructions:  

First, place your beads on the head pins. 

Place your measuring bead on the head pin.  Use your pliers to cut the wire right above this bead. 

Now you’re ready to make loops with the wire.  Grab the wire with your pliers (with the flat part of the pliers), and bend it down at a 90 degree angle.

Now grab the wire with the round part of the pliers.  Hold the bead still and move your pliers to bend the wire into a round shape.  (You’ll bend your wrist as far as it will go and reposition your pliers to continue shaping the loop.)  Don’t close the loop completely yet. 

Now place the earring wire loop inside the loop you just made on the head pin.  Use the grooved part of the pliers to close the loop completely.

Finished!