Opening and closing loops can be a tricky skill to learn, but is essential in jewellery making. There are two ways that I teach. You may find one easier than the other but you may find your own way, in which case let me know! However, the principle is always the same, the loop needs to be opened without loosing too much shape and must be securely closed at the end.
 
Method one – Chain nose pliers
Use a pair of chain nose pliers to carefully ‘lift’ the loop up, away from the post. Hook the loop onto whatever it is you are hooking it onto, for example, an ear wire and close by pushing the loop back down so that it touches the post of the headpin, ensuring there are no gaps.
 
Method two – Round nose pliers
Insert the end of the round nose plier into the loop and carefully pull the loop open to the side. Hook the loop onto whatever it is you are hooking it onto, for example, an ear wire and close by twisting the loop closed again. This method does risk losing the roundness of the loop but if done carefully, you should be ok.