Don't Make These Wire Wrapping Mistakes

Whether you are brand new to wire wrapping, or a seasoned professional, it's always a good idea to review to basics. I originally wrote this post with my own tried and true tips to make your wire wrapping the best it can be, but during the Facebook Live, my beady friends had so many more suggestions, the list grew and grew!

1. One size does not fit all - don’t use one gauge or one temper of wire for all projects. Choose the best gauge and hardness for what you’re making.
2. You can work harden your wire by tapping it with a Nylon Hammer on a Bench Block, but don't use a flame to anneal German Style or Artistic Wire - the Tarnish Resistant coating will not react well with the flame.
3. Don’t guestimate to make your loops the same size – make a mark on your round nose pliers with a permanent marker or use a Stepped Bail Making Pliers to insure consistent loops.
4. Don't forget to cut with the flush cut facing your work, hold onto the piece you are cutting off so it doesn't go flying, and tuck your tails in! *The Crimping Pliers works great for tucking in particularly pesky wire tails.
5. Don’t start with bent wire. Use a Nylon Jaw Pliers to straighten your wire before you start wrapping.
6. Don’t use chain nose pliers to make loops – use round nose pliers.
7. Don’t only use round wire for wire wrapping – try half round and square wire for professional looking results. This Practice Kit with one of each is a great place to start!
8. Don’t use non-jewelry grade tools to do your wire wrapping – always buy the best tools you can afford for the best results. And don't let anyone take your good jewelry pliers for household repairs!
9. Don't leave sharp edges on your wires. Use a Cup Burr Attachment for the Battery Operated Bead Reamer or a file to smooth your ends.
10. When you take the German Style Wire out of the pack, don't snip off both of the zip ties - leave one on to keep your wire neat. Also, store your coils of German Style Wire in baggies labeled with the gauge and whether it's round, half round, or square.
11. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – wire wrapping takes practice, practice, practice!

What are your best wire wrapping tips and tricks? Let us know in the comments, or post a photo on your socials and tag #beadalon. Be sure to join the Jewelry Making with Beadalon Facebook Group and show us your favorite wire wrapped creations!

Until then, happy beading!

Meredith