What type of wire do you use?

[FeathersnThingz]

HI there - I am kind of new to wire wrapping and have been experimenting with different types of wires. I am wondering if any of the more experienced wire wrappers would be able to share with me which types of wire you like to use the most (gauge, half round, square, copper, sterling, etc.) for what types of projects. I have looked at online tutorials and they are very general. I understand it will largely depend on what you are making, but any advice/tips for choosing would be appreciated. I have started with less expensive copper wires, but am trying to delve a bit more into sterling silver and gold filled - wondering if anyone has any thoughts or tips that might be helpful. Right now I am mainly doing wire wrapped stones/pendants. Thanks!

[Untwistedsister]

Hi Laura, Yesterday was kind of busy so I didn't see your question. I always feel terrible when I post and no one bothers to reply. :(

For the type of wire wrapping I do, which is a traditional border wrapping, I use mainly 22 or 21 gauge square wire (usually dead soft but sometimes half hard), and use 18 or 20 gauge half round, half hard wire to bind it. But I also use MANY other types of wire for different projects from round to half round between 22 gauge and 12 gauge. I only use either sterling silver or 14K gold filled. I have used argentium in the past but it has a slightly different feel for me than sterling silver. I've never tried the silver filled. The reasons I use sterling and gold filled is my boo boos and scraps are recyclable. I also do silversmithing so the sterling silver can often be used in a soldering project.

Experiment a little and see what works for you.

[FeathersnThingz]

Terri - thanks so much for your reply! It actually is very helpful to me. I have been using dead soft - have been a little intimidated by half hard, but maybe will try it too. I just ordered some sterling silver and also 12K gold filled (is that a lot lower quality than the 14K?) so am anxious to try those. I have mainly worked with square but also ordered some half round to try. Good to know that these are recyclable - like everyone I do end up with scrap - hate throwing it away. Your work is beautiful - eventually I would like to do some things with soldering as well - good to know the sterling works for that. I am enjoying working with wire so much - thanks again for your input - good to know I am on the right track. I

[DriftInJewelry]

When I first started, I used copper, then I moved on to silver plated, & finally Argentium Sterling Silver. I use 22gauge square with 20 gauge 1/2 Round wire for binding. Dead soft silver is the easiest to work with but this should be hardened by tumbling for a couple of hours with steel shot after the piece is completed. I love Argentium.

[Former_Member]

I use silver plated wire. Either Artistic wire, or parawire. Mainly 20 gauge

[Former_Member]

It depends on the type of wire wrap you do and your price point. I use 20ga round SS for frames and 28, 26, or 24 for fine wraps, but I am unconventional.

Since you're just starting out, copper is inexpensive and a softness that will get you ready for more expensive metals. You can experiment to your heart's content with very little investment, but still produce saleable items (a lot of people love copper jewelry, but can't find it).

[Former_Member]

https://www.etsy.com/listing/176543017/affordable-fashion-earrings-for-women?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/176534958/cheap-affortable-earrings-for-women?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/176539745/letter-necklaceinitial-a-z-infinity?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/176622470/cheap-affordable-earrings-for-women?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/176530818/dangle-earrings-for-women-floral?

[DistortedEarth]

I use 18 gauge for my rings. It's strong enough for a nice thin band. I don't like having to wrap the wire more then twice around the mandrel. Just a personal preference.