One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is being able to try out new tools and materials that I might not otherwise try. I had a blast a few weeks ago trying my hand at embossing metal blanks using the Vintaj die-cutting and embossing machine (see my post here). Over the past few months I've tried epoxy clay for the first time, learned how to make a trendy wrap bracelet, and experimented with light-sensitive dye. All fun and gratifying, but things I may not have tried outside the office.

I'm excited that my newest discovery is super easy and super fast!! Using a tool called the Easy Ear Wire maker, I was able to make a pair of ear wires in a matter of seconds. Let me show you how:

1. Before you begin, you'll need a bit of wire (20- or 22-gauge), some flush cutters, and the Easy Ear Wire maker.

2. Place the wire in the measuring groove and trim. I love how easy it is to get two wires that are exactly the same size!

3. Remove the clear disk and position the Easy Ear Wire maker so that the lever (the handle-looking part) is to the left, and the kicker (the T-shaped part) is parallel to the groove. Place one end of the wire so it rests against the stop on the kicker.

4. Replace the clear disk by inserting the pin on the disk into the crescent recess of the lever (to the right of center).

5. Hold the wire in place with your right hand, and turn the disk counter-clockwise with your left hand until you feel some resistance. You will see that this forms the simple loop of the ear wire, so you will want the top of the wire to meet up with the section of wire that is parallel to the groove.

6. Use your right hand to turn the lever clockwise.

7. Turn the lever until it can go no farther. The kicker will move to the left slightly, forming the slight bend in the ear wire that is inserted into your ear.

8. Remove the clear disk, and voila!

It's fun to create ear wires in a variety of colors. Embellish a few by adding small beads just above the loop, as shown on the left.

The instructions recommend using 20-gauge wire, but I found that I preferred using 22-gauge instead. I also wish I could have made some variations on the standard ear wire using a longer piece of wire, but this little gadget is set up in a way that the loops would not form if the wire were either too long or too short. My experiments proved this to be true.

Be sure to pick up a copy of the winter issue of Jewelry Stringing, available on newsstands December 11th, where our Beads to Buy section features loads of unique ear wires for your next earring project!

Bead creatively,

Debbie Blair, Managing Editor