Freeform Looped Wrap Pendant
Simple wrapped pendants are easy to make, unique, and require very few materials. Make the bail large enough to slip on and off a favorite chain. Create several wrapped pendants, and combine them with a sterling silver chain for a special gift.
Level: Medium
Materials
Flat drilled bead - example is 18x10mm blackstone bead
Sterling silver wire in light gauge - 22-26g
Begin by creating your bail. String the bead onto the wire (do no cut off spool) and leave approximately 2" tail. Create a wrapped loop above the bead, using a stepped or round pliers. Clip excess wire.
Because of the delicacy of the wire (22-26g is thin), I use my fingers for wrapping, only using a pliers or mandrel to create the loops on the front of the pendant.
At the bottom of your bead, pull the wire straight up the back to the top of the bead and rewrap the wrap on the bail. This will strengthen your bail and will also give you better leverage when creating your wraps on the bead.
Gently pull the wire across the front of the bead, and create 1-2 small loops in the wire using your fingers and the small end of a needle nosed pliers. If you can make the loop on the surface of the bead, it will give you better leverage, but be careful not to scratch the bead. You can also create the loop "in the air" and then gently reposition the wire on the surface of the bead (being careful not to pull your loop tight!). Wrap the wire around the back of the bead and angle to bring around to the front again. Repeat 2-3 times, depending on the size of your bead and the complexity you want in your design.
End your design near the bail, and create a second wrapped loop, wrapping the excess wire around the first one. Clip excess wire. Again, because your wire is very thin and delicate, you are creating strength by doubling the loops in your bail. Lightly hammer to harden if desired.
