A simple wire craft for older children using beads and basic tools
This angel key ring is a lovely keepsake craft that older children really enjoy. It combines beads, wire, and simple jewellery findings to create a small angel that can be used as a key ring, bag charm, or gift.
Because this project uses wire and side cutters, it is best suited to children aged 10 and up, with adult help for cutting and shaping the wire. Younger children can still take part by choosing beads and helping with assembly while an adult handles the tools.
Presented by: Crafty Corner
Skill level: Beginner
Age suitability: 10+ with adult supervision
Supervision note: Uses sharp wire and side cutters; adults should assist with cutting and fine wirework
Materials and tools
- 10 cm galvanised or stainless-steel wire (or heavy beading wire)
- 6 cm silver chain
- Acrylic beads:
- 1 cone-shaped bead (body)
- 1 round bead (head)
- Angel wings (available at most bead stores)
- Silver bead cap
- Halo (bead spacer)
- Key ring
- Side cutter pliers
- Flat-nose pliers
Before starting, lay all the materials out on the table so children can see how the pieces will come together.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Create the body
Thread the wire through the top of the cone-shaped bead. This bead forms the angel’s body.
Make sure one side of the wire is longer than the other — all the remaining pieces will be threaded onto this longer section.
Step 2: Secure the base
Wrap the short end of the wire around the longer piece to hold the cone bead firmly in place.
Press the wire flat so it doesn’t stick out.
Step 3: Trim the wire
(Adult help recommended)
Using side cutter pliers, cut off the excess wire from the wrapped section.
Step 4: Add the bead cap
Thread the silver bead cap onto the wire. This sits neatly on top of the cone and helps separate the body from the wings.
Step 5: Add the wings
Thread the angel wings onto the wire, making sure they sit evenly and face the right way.
This is often the moment when the angel really starts to look like an angel!
Step 6: Add the head
Thread the round bead onto the wire. This bead becomes the angel’s head.
Gently slide it down until it rests against the wings.
Step 7: Add the halo and make a loop
(Adult help recommended)
Thread the halo (bead spacer) onto the wire. Using flat-nose pliers, bend the wire to form a loop as close to the halo as possible.
This loop will be used to attach the chain.
Step 8: Attach the chain
Close the loop securely around one end of the silver chain using the pliers.
Make sure the loop is fully closed so the chain cannot slip off.
Step 9: Add the key ring
Attach the key ring to the other end of the chain.
Check that everything is secure before moving on.
Step 10: Finished!
Your angel key ring is now complete.
Children often enjoy showing these off or giving them as small gifts — each one looks slightly different, which makes them special.