Begin with what its creator was trying to make. Then, add 1-2 abilities/drawbacks that make it clear something isn't quite right. As subtle or unsubtle as you want.
Then, imagine some time passes. Staple on more qualities the more time goes by, up to and passing sentience. Try to make its qualities work together to make it dangerous in a really weird way.
It may wind up more like a creature, but don't underestimate the damage a non-speaking, non-thinking object can do. Think of the One Ring, or the Goiânia accident (warning - link gets intense starting at 'Theft of the source'; no graphic images at time of posting, though).
EXAMPLE
Intended as: staff of withering
Not Right A: Ages anything it touches by 1 year/round until dead.
Not Right B: Can wake a nearby dead body as a nonspeaking wight, and telepathically communicate with it. It can't, or won't, otherwise communicate.
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