You can use wire to create your own bead links and beaded charms. Connect bead links together to form a bracelet or necklace and create beaded charms to make quick and easy earrings.

To make a simple bead link, cut a 3" piece of wire. Make a 90 degree angle about 1" from one end of the wire. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end and wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop. String a bead onto the wire and make another loop. Use chain nose pliers to hold the loop as you use your fingers to wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop.

To make a decorative bead link, cut a piece of wire that's 4" long. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end and wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop. String a bead onto the wire and make another loop. Wrap the extra wire around the base of the loop and downward around the bead. You can also make a little cap on the bead by spiraling the wire around the stem.

To attach a second bead, slip the loop onto the first bead before wrapping the extra wire around the stem.

You can use the same technique to make simple beaded charms. Use round nose pliers to make a loop on one end of a wire, and then hold the loop between your thumb and forefinger. Turn your wrist to make a spiral. Bend the end in a right angle and string a bead onto the wire. Make a loop above the bead and wrap any extra wire around the bead for extra decoration.