Ready to start making wire wrapped jewellery? Then start by brushing up on your wire wrapping knowledge by reading through our essential glossary. Get to grips with what you need to know in order to start your wire jewellery making journey.
Base Metal Wire – These are non precious metals. Copper wire is an easy to work with wire that is cost efficient so it’s great for those still learning wire wrapping techniques.
Cutters – Small, stainless steel cutters that are perfect for cutting chain and wire.
Files – Generally made from steel, files are used for a variety of applications including smoothing down rough edges
Flat nose pliers – Pliers with two flat-faced jaws that are ideal for a range of tasks
Gauge – a measurement of the diameter of wire
Half round pliers – Pliers with one flat and one half round jaw, ideal for shaping wire.
Hardness – this refers to the temper of the wire. There are generally 3 types of wire; dead soft which is incredibly easy to work with but can just as easily loose its shape. Half hard wire is a little firmer but still easy to work with and hard wire is difficult to work with but will make more reliable, permanent pieces.
Mandrel/Triblet – A tool made from either a sturdy plastic or metal that is used for measuring ring or bracelet sizes.
Round nose pliers – Pliers with two rounded jaws that are ideal for ideal for bending wire into loups.
Rawhide Hammer – Made from varnished rawhide, these hammers are ideal for flattening wire without leaving any marks
Repousse Hammer – A steel headed hammer that can be used to add texture to your wire. This hammer also has one side that can be used to flatten wire.
Setting – The specific area of your wire piece where a stone/crystal will sit
Snipe nose pliers – Pliers with serrated edges ideal for holding small components and for bending and straightening wire.
Want to start making jewellery with wire? These are just a few of the terms to get to grips with when first stating your wire wrapping journey. For more information, advice and useful tips our wire wrapping jewellery hub has everything you need all in one place. Let us help you on your jewellery making journey.
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