Wire Wrapped Face Earrings
Today, we’ll dive into a unique wire-wrapping project—creating a custom wire face earring. This tutorial is perfect for DIY jewelry enthusiasts who want to experiment with various wire types and gauges to create a trendy, artistic accessory. New to wire wrapping? Then check out my Complete Beginner’s Guide to Wire Wrapping Jewelry post/video. Now let get started!
Visual learner? Scroll to the bottom for the step-by-step video tutorial.
Materials and Tools Needed
16-gauge copper wire or 14-gauge copper wire (main structure)
20-gauge copper wire or 22-gauge copper wire (earring hooks)
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1. Setting Up Your Workstation
To keep your template in place, tape it securely to your work surface. This keeps everything steady as you form the wire into the facial outline. I tested both large and medium templates for sizing options—hold the template near your face or earlobes to decide which size works best for you.
2. Forming the Face Shape
Begin by crafting an “eye” shape. Remember to have patience, as wire wrapping can be meticulous. As you mold the wire, create loops for details like the eye corner and cheek curves. This step requires flexibility, so practice patience to keep your shapes tight and defined.
3. Testing and Perfecting the Design
While bending and testing various shapes, I tried out several face styles. If you have scrap or "rando" wire, use it as practice to avoid wasting your main materials. Once you find a shape you love, recreate it with your chosen copper or aluminum wire.
4. Crafting the Earring Hook
For your earring hooks, I used 20-gauge copper wire. I show a quick, simple technique to loop and shape earring wires. Remember to leave some extra space at the ends to loop through your main face wire. Secure your earring wire with small bends to finish the hook.
Tips for Wire Wrapping Success
Be Patient: Gather all the patience you can when handling wires.
Over-Bend: To make precise loops or angles, over-bend slightly and adjust.
Choose Wire Wisely: Aluminum bends easily but might not hold its shape as well as copper.
Once your face is fully shaped, you can decide to wear your unique creation as either a bold earring or a pendant on a necklace. Wear your piece proudly, and get creative with other shapes and wire colors!
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If you love this project, don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest so you can easily find it later and share it with others! It’s a great way to organize your favorite ideas and inspire your next creation.
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