Spring steel isn't your friend. It only has one interest in the world.. returning to its original shape.  

So be prepared for that.  Expect it to try to snap and get loose.  

- Wear safety glasses.  Consider wearing gloves

- Let it relax when doing any cutting. You don’t want it to jump when you get through the cut

- Have space around you.  If it gets loose it can easily send small things off your desk flying

Above all, consider what might go wrong before you start trying to make your loop. 

Also, when cutting it I recommend mini bolt cutters.  Much faster than a saw and better control. https://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-8-Inch-Mini-Cutter-3386/dp/B000NQ4OYO