Daily Wire Tip Oct. 18: Filigree Wire in Wirework

By on October 17, 2011
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip for
October 18, 2011

Question:

What gauge and temper of wire is used for the intricate lacy curlicues commonly fill in the outlines of filigree components?

-Shelly in Mililani, Hawaii

Answer:

Hi Shelly, the wire that I use to create “cold” filigree is usually 24-gauge half hard square, that I twist before I work with it. To learn how to create, curve, tease, and connect cold filigree, may I suggest checking out my Cold Filigree Wide Cuff Bracelet DVD?

If you mean “traditional” filigree, then I would recommend getting a copy of my friend Jean Rhodes-Moen’s book, Silver Threads (ISBN 0-87116-221-0), because she is an authority on Norwegian filigree jewelry design and technique.

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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