Happy Discoveries (that have been there all along)

We all have those "duh!" moments, right?  When you realize that what you need has been right there all along?

So it was when a customer came in with an earring design in mind.  I knew what she wanted, but we didn't have that specific finding in stock.  And then it hit me:  take the 25mm beading hoops and with a stretch here and a bend there they become beautiful fancy earwires!

Fancy earwires made from 25mm gold-filled beading hoops

Start with one pair of beading hoops.  A number of sizes are available -- we carry 20mm and 25mm.

25mm Gold-filled beading hoops

Hold the hoops together to be sure you shape them the same.

Hold hoops together

Holding the hoops at each end, gently stretch apart into an oval half-circle (if there is such a thing).

Pull apart to re-shape

Half circles (sort of)

Still holding the hoops together, make a bend about 1 1/2 inches from the straight edge.

Bend to make the earwire

Use chain nose pliers to bend the bottom loops so they're slightly angled from the wire -- you don't have to do this, but it's a nice touch.

You can add a bead or two to the earwire above the loop if you want (you'll probably have to straighten out the bend a bit to do this -- or if you're good at planning ahead, add the beads before making the bend).

Then use your headpins/eyepins as usual to make your earrings and attach them to your new fancy earwires!    Now you're ready to sparkle the whole holiday season.

Add beads and finish the earrings!