How to Fold Your Own Wire Ornament Loops for DIY Christmas Decorating in 2024

Learn how to fold your own wire ornament loop with this expert guide. Wondering how to make an ornament loop? Or how to bend ornament hooks? We’ll answer all your questions and make it easy to create lovely DIY Christmas ornaments. 

Once you get the hang of it, learning how to fold your own wire ornament loop for Christmas tree hanging isn’t hard. You’ll be folding and coming up with fun Christmas tree decorating ideas in no time. 

Jump to Section

• How to Make Perfect Wire Loops
• How to Make a Wire Loop for a Pendant
• Making Consistent Loops with Step Nose Pliers

How to Make Perfect Wire Loops

Adding handmade touches to your holiday decor can make your Christmas feel personal and cozy and DIY wire loops for hanging ornaments are a great place to start. These hangers are quick and easy to make and provide a timeless aesthetic. You can make sturdy and stylish loops with just a few simple tools. 

Supplies and Tools You’ll Need

• 19-Gauge Dark Annealed Steel Wire

• Wire Cutters

• Ring Mandrel

• Round Nose Pliers

How to Fold Your Own Wire Ornament Loop Easily

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wire

Start by cutting an 8-inch piece of wire. This length allows for flexibility as you shape the wire into your desired loop sizes. It’s always best to cut a little extra. You can trim it down if necessary, but you can’t add length back once it’s cut.

Step 2: Wrap Around the Mandrel

Hold one end of your wire against the mandrel. Wrap the wire around the mandrel, creating a half-circle. This will be the first loop of your “S” shape. Flip the wire around to the opposite end and wrap it in the opposite direction, mirroring the first loop to create an “S.” If you want uniform loops, wrap each end of the wire at the same point on the mandrel. This symmetrical shape not only looks polished but also balances the weight of your ornaments.

Step 3: Create Loops at the Ends

With the “S” shape established, use your round nose pliers to bend each end of the wire into a small loop. These loops serve two purposes: they eliminate sharp ends that could scratch ornaments or people, and they provide additional holding points for securely attaching ornaments.

Step 4: Attach the Hanger to an Ornament

For added security, slip the ornament onto one of the loops before closing the second loop. This approach keeps the ornament from accidentally slipping off the hanger, which is especially useful for antique or treasured decorations. 

To secure the ornament, twist the loop just enough to form a closed circle. The wire’s strength ensures it stays in place, and the dark steel offers a charmingly rustic look.

How to Make a Wire Loop for a Pendant

An eye loop pin is a staple in jewelry making and can also come in handy for ornament hangers. Here’s a simple process for making a basic eye loop pin.

Step 1: Prepare Your Wire

Cut a length of wire, and add a bead if desired. Leave a small section of wire above the bead for looping.

Step 2: Bend the Wire

Bend the wire at a 90-degree angle right above the bead or the endpoint.

Step 3: Create the Loop

Grasp the end of the wire with round nose pliers and twist it to form a small loop. If using step pliers, you can ensure a consistent loop size by wrapping the wire around one of the cylindrical steps. With these eye loop pins, you can add extra embellishments to your ornament hangers.

Making Consistent Loops with Step Nose Pliers

For those looking to create multiple ornament hangers with uniform loops, step nose pliers (also known as bail-forming pliers) are a great alternative to round nose pliers. Unlike round nose pliers, step pliers have cylindrical steps of various sizes, allowing you to make loops of consistent diameters.

Plus, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 6,000 craft artists in the nation. If you’re even considering a part-time or hobbyist crafting lifestyle, you'll need proper equipment. 

1. Create the Loop

Position the wire on the smallest step and wrap it around to create the loop. Repeat the process for the other side. The result is a series of ornament hangers with precisely sized loops, giving your Christmas decor a professional and polished appearance.

2. Practicing with Craft Wire Before Using Specialty Wire

If you’re new to wire looping, start by practicing with inexpensive craft wire. This allows you to perfect your technique without worrying about wasting high-quality or specialty wire. As you practice, you’ll notice that your loops become more even and professional-looking. How to wrap the wire around a bead? By practicing with cheap wire. 

3. Caring for Your Wire Tools

Using steel wire can be hard on your tools, so it’s a good idea to designate specific cutters and pliers for steel projects. Using standard jewelry cutters on steel wire can dull or damage them, especially if they’re meant for softer materials. You might also consider cleaning your tools after use with steel.

4. Crafting Wire Loops for a Personalized Holiday

Creating these wire ornament hangers is more than just a functional project. It’s an opportunity to add a touch of craftsmanship to your Christmas decor. Each hanger you make can bring a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, especially if you enjoy the vintage or handmade aesthetic.

Now that you know how to fold your own wire ornament loop for Christmas tree decorating it’s time to get crafty. Take this guide and come up with new holiday crafts and front porch Christmas decorating ideas. The world is your crafting oyster. 

For even more great decorating ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!