Wire Wrapping Tips

Wire wrapping is going strong and you have more choices than ever when it comes to different wire shapes, strengths and colors! While many people are familiar with the terms that relate to sterling silver, it isn't always so clear where other types of wire fall in relation.

This chart shows a scale of hardness, based on comparison to sterling, gold-filled and non-tarnish brass wire. Dead Soft is the most easily manipulated type of wire, while Full Hard has the most body. Half-hard is in the center of the spectrum. Beginners are typically advised to start out with the softest wire because it's easier to bend. This prevents frustration and also allows the beginner to more easily correct mistakes. Precise wire wrapping requires wires toward the harder end of the spectrum.

Artistic Wire is available in 55 colors and 13 diameters. Non-tarnish brass resembles gold and will retain its finish and shine due a proprietary non-tarnish finish. Tinned copper, bare copper, and bare brass are the only three colors without the unique, tarnish-resistant coating. These wires will patina, or naturally oxidize and darken with time to provide a vintage look.

German Style Wire is available in four gauges and several shapes. This copper and brass wire has an anti-tarnish coating and has the perfect temper and finish for most jewelry wire wrapping uses. Fancy Round wire is constructed of two strands of round wire that have been twisted together, then run through tooling to make the outside smooth instead of textured.

Stainless Steel Wire is specially tempered wire that is stronger and has a different “feel” than other half-hard materials such as Gold-filled or Sterling Silver. Ideal for all types of wire-wrapping, weight-bearing designs, and holding designs together. Stainless Steel will work-harden faster than other wires and resembles the look of vintage platinum.

-Katie Hacker

Katiedids™

www.KatieHacker.com

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