Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
March 17, 2010

Question:

What is the most multi purpose gauge of wire? Please also include square, half round or round wire.

Answer:

Here’s where I will receive more comments about being vague, but I really cannot tell you exactly which shape, size and temper of wire is used most often, as each ‘style’ of wire jewelry creation calls for it’s own specifics. For example, my personal style of ‘traditional’ uses mostly half-hard square wire in gauges from 18 through 24 and half round, half hard wire from 18g to 21g; whereas ‘sculpting’ uses similar gauges, the majority of which are dead soft in temper; and chain maille wire jewelry uses round wire in similar gauges, usually half or full hard. For more information, we do have a good article (‘What type of Wire should I Use?)  Part 1 http://wire-sculpture.com/jewelry-making-blog/37/part-1-what-type-of-wire-should-i-use/ and Part 2 http://wire-sculpture.com/jewelry-making-blog/31/part-2-what-type-of-wire-should-i-use/

Whenever this question is asked, my advise is: find a project you enjoy making, practice and then expand to other projects. While working and growing, you will determine which gauge, temper and shape you enjoy working with the best and can then alter patterns to fit YOUR favorite wire style.

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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