Wire working

Work hardening wire: buying chasing hammer: flat face or rounded? rubber bench block?

Keith R — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:46:02 GMT

I've decided to start wireworking. I've already bought a rawhide mallet and a good steel bench block. I've read the debates here about using a "chasing" hammer versus a "planishing" hammer. I read on some websites that using the chasing hammer for what I've seen a lot of instructors use it for is a "misuse," or for "beginners." Even the Fretz chasing hammer practically has a disclaimer not to use it for what they know wire workers are going to buy it for. Considering the authors of every book I own and the instructional videos I've seen on websites like this say to use a "chasing," hammer I guess I will try the hardware store trick and mirror finish my own ACE hammer for lots of use. I'm very handy with tools.

The debate I'm having with myself is whether I'm supposed to buy one with a slightly "rounded" working face or a flat one. I see some authors insist on a rounded primary face, but I've also seen the vast majority of the hammers being sold with a "flat" working face and the majority of posters hear say they use a "flat" face. Also, I'm a little fuzzy now on whether I should keep this face mirrored and smooth or slightly marred like I've seen other posters here state as their preference.

One more thing: The books and websites say to use preferably a rawhide or plastic mallet with the steel bench block for work hardening wire. I do see some "rubber" bench blocks advertised for non-marring while working hardening your wire. I haven't seen anyone using these though. I've only seen maybe once (I think on fusion beads.com)someone using that special bench block with the rubber suction base and the nylon insert for this purpose. Preferences and advice please?

sodering gold filled wire

t2 designs — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:47:25 GMT

Does anyone have any tips for sodering gold filled wire or gold filled sheet metal? Since the cost of gold is insane I am working with siler and gold filled wire and would like to design jewelry using both mediums in the same piece.. Can that be done? Has it been done? Does anyone have any advice?

wire wrap marble help

SueW — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 02:26:47 GMT

Does anyone know how to wire wrap a marble? I need a loop on both ends to attach it to a chain. Since there is no hole, I am stumped.

SueW

Help with jump ring maker

Julian*** — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 15:27:11 GMT

Hi,

I recently bought a Pepe Jump Ring Maker and I am really struggling with it. I am certain it is user error because I see a lot of people have great luck with it. No matter how slowly I cut and how carefully I screw down the top, after the first few rings are cut, the coil jumps past the blade and the rest of the coil is damaged. If anyone could help me, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you!

2 Day Intensive Wire Jewelry Workshop photos...

willie46 — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 00:39:01 GMT

Hey Everyone,

I finally posted my website on the wire jewelry workshops I'm teaching.

Here's the link below.

http://www.wirejewelryworkshop.com

I teach 3 to 5 hour classes locally but also travel to teach my 2 Day Intensive Workshops.

I'll have pics of my other classes & workshops up soon.

Let me know if any of you have a group that's interested in the 2 Day Intensive Workshop.

You can find all the information and photos on the website above.

Thanks,

Wil Peterson

FINSHING VIKING KNIT?

AudreyT — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 15:34:28 GMT

Hey all. I am going to try my hand at viking knit with SS wire. I found a video tutorial after seeing it recently here on the boards. I am excited to try..but I don't know how to finish it off. I have seen bead caps on the pics I have found online....how do these work? Is this the only way to finish the knit?

Thanks in advance for helping out with my question. I know I have lots of them, as I am just beginning with lots of different techniques. I also know I am not much help to you all, because I don't know much yet:-) So, thanks for taking the time to help.

How to make a point on wire - for a pin?

Phyl — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 03:10:28 GMT

Is there any bit that would work in a Dremel that I can use to shape the end of 18 or 20 gauge wire into a point? It's taking way too long to do it by filing and sanding. Perhaps it's because I'm just starting out, but each one I do is a challenge. I test the point on several fabrics, to make sure that the point won't damage or catch on any of them. By the time I'm satisfied, I am ready to swear off making another one.

It would be easier if I did it before starting the piece, but if I'm unsatisfied with the way to design is going, I've wasted all the time and effort I put in on the point when I scrap it.

I'd appreciate any suggestions or information. Thanks.

Wire Jewelry Artist Forming A Guild!

willie46 — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:48:00 GMT

Hello All,

I'm in the process of forming a group that's dedicated to wire jewelry & bulk purchases and wanted to know if any of you would be interested.

We will soon have a website up that will further our growth and also a newsletter that will be sent out monthly. The newsletter will be done by December 2009.

Our primary focus will be networking with each other and sharing ideas, techniques, advice, etc. We will also be combining "bulk orders" together to cut our costs on supplies.

There will be weekly conference calls on different subjects like NEW techniques, skills for advancement, different styles of wire jewelry, show reviews, and anything else that will help us grow and expand our jewelry businesses.

A few of the members asked if there will be a cost to join. As of now we will keep it open to everyone but may ask to "contribute" by helping with the bulk orders.

This way "beginning members" still can feel as if they helped out by placing a bulk order even though they have very little to share in reference to skills or techniques.

We hope to have enough growth to be able to invite other TOP wire artist to our conference calls and possibly future wire jewelry shows.

Please let me know if any of you want to participate as this is happening as we speak...or type!

You can contact me direct at:

Wil Peterson

(760) 294-8164

wilp2001@yahoo.com

http://wireandglassart.etsy.com

looking for 18K rose gold soft wire

judiez — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:03:49 GMT

I am looking for soft and hard 18k rose gold wires for a commission work I committed to. I'd very much like to save time and buy a ready to use wire. Looked at rio's site but they don't seem to have it. Any ideas?

Thanks,

Judiez

Anyone tried this hammer?

Peachtree — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 13:39:43 GMT

http://www.fusionbeads.com/shop/product/30077/

I've never done metal work such as making my own components, but I want to learn. Has anyone tried this hammer from fusion beads? I know it isn't a high class one, but is it a good one to start out with? My budget is rather small right now.

Thanks!

Beaded Viking Knit--drawing?

sbrittig — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:00:04 GMT

I saw a brief demo of beaded viking knit at a festival--incorporating seed beads into the weaving. I didn't think to ask at the time, but can that go through a drawplate? I'm thinking the beads would break. If not, how would I reduce it?

thanks,

Sherrie

HELP!! Horrible, unsolvable problem with wire!

tracydee — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 17:36:45 GMT

I have looked everywhere before posting...NOONE seems to have this problem! I have been terrified to post....seems more of a personal failing than an embarrasing hygiene problem (LOL).

I am doing my first show this Sat. I have lots of product, been getting everything clean and labled. Now, I am not even sure if I can sell my product, due to uncontrolable tarnish! It is so bad, I am afraid if people buy one day, by the next they will be demanding their money back...I kid you not!

Every item gets tarnish remover, then goes for an hour spin in the tumbler. Comes out fabulous. I rinse, dry, put EACH item in zip-lock bag with THREE of FOUR anti-tarnish strips, and then within three hours, even SEALED tite, EVERY item is almost completely black!!!! I am NOT kidding. I actually SAT watching three copper bracelets, and they only took about twenty min. I actually watched them dim and go dark!

This happens to almost EVERYTHING!! Now, all my wire, BEFORE I use it, stays perfect in its bag....some for 6 months. STERLING, Copper, Gold filled, plated, it is all the same. Perversely, only two items stay clean: Silver links purchased from the Ring Lord, and sterling "rock wraps". Even happens to my gold colored memory wire. I can't sell it looking like this! I tried laquering (went black with first coat), dipping in "future" floor sealer (the same). I can't clean it FAST enough to get it out the door before it is ugly. Some of the gold plated wire I bought from Preston Reuther, as well as 72 plated chains, once they tarnished, would not clean in the tumbler, or with ANY cleaner. They went so ugly in two weeks, I threw them out....all that time and expense for nothing!

I know some out there will think I am making it up.....but I have NEVER seen a problem this bad.

Incidently, my own personal jewelry, from stores, is FINE in the same house....never a problem.

This is the first creative thing I am REALLY good at...and have a passion for. I don't want to stop. Is there ANYONE out there who can help? Tracydee

earwire gauge

cre8ive1 — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:46:13 GMT

What gauge do you all use for your earwire?

Wire storage solutions

dressagewoman — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:56:39 GMT

RIght now my wire lives in a wire drawer. The big loose coils are in ziploc bags,the big spools are just sitting in the drawer and the small spools and coils (of which there are vanishingly few since I'm buying bigger quantities) are in a box. This is kind of messy... anyone have a clever solution? I was thinking of some kind of horizontal file thingy maybe? I have a lot of variety in metal types and guage and it's getting to be a hassle to find what I'm looking for.

Druzy Pendent Contest

scrimmer — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 18:18:31 GMT

Wanted to give a heads up about the contest going on over at Wire-Sculpture.com using druzy stones and wire. You might want to check it out because the prizes are decent ones.

www.wire-sculpture.com/pages/druzy_contest_2009.html

Mary

Hardness of Craft Wire

oriole6 — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 13:14:15 GMT

Sorry if this has been discussed before; this newbie is about to start wire-wrapping with craft wire. I'll be using either Artistic or Paramount and plan on getting 20 and 26 or 28 gauges. My inspiration is Eni. How hard can I expect these gauges to be? Will they be soft enough for Eni-style wrapping? Thanks, ~ Robin

Best Place to buy jewellery making tools ? ?

JAMES ROBERT — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 05:28:44 GMT

Hello Everybody, Do you have any idea about the best place to buy jewellery making tools? Actually, I am going to start jewellery making and I want to buy some tools for this purpose. If you have any idea about the best shop where such type of tools and equipments are available, you are most welcome to give your suggestion.

Black Nickel Wire Source

cmoore1231 — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 00:24:58 GMT

Anyone know of a source for black nickel wire of any gage? Thank you:-)

Free Tutorial - Wire Wrapped setting for a faceted stone

cynmarbil — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:20:39 GMT

Materials:

Faceted stone, soldered jump ring (18 or 20 gauge) the same size as the stone, 26 or 28 gauge wire.

Step one:

Starting in the middle of a piece of wire, wrap one end of the wire around the jump ring, as shown in the photo, making six evenly spaced double loops around the outside of the ring. I'm using a hatpin as my mandrel. The length of wire needed will vary, for a 5mm setting, I use 10-12 inches of wire. Wrap the wire around the jump ring to finish, cut and pinch it tightly with your pliers to keep it there.

Step two:

Take the other end of the wire, and slip it through the first set of loops, as shown in the photo. Continue going around the circle, catching each loop, and smoothing the wire on top of the stone. Make sure each wrap catches the top of the stone. The stone will want to slip out, so watch it!

Step three:

After you wrap the last set of loops, wrap the wire around the jump ring, cut it flush, and use your pliers to tighten it.

Variation:

You can go around the loops again, making the loops on the outside, to make flower links. You can separate the double loops to make a decorative edging.

If you use this tutorial, I'd love to see what you do!! Or, if you have any questions, or ideas for new variations, I'd like to see those, too. Please post anything related to this tutorial in this thread!

Cindy

Please help!!! - Need Shell / Agate Cameo Supplier

zoopaws — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 19:56:27 GMT

As a wireworker, I love using cameos in my designs. I am familiar with the German Agate cameos available at Rio Grande, but I need some help finding shell cameos.

I need a company to purchase quality shell and agate cameos from at reasonable prices.

Although beautiful, I have not had much luck selling the resin “fashion cameos” to my high end customers. They always say…”isn’t it plastic???” and even when I explain how great the details are, they can never see past the resin…

Where do you guys find your shell and agate cameos??? Please help as I have almost given up!!! Thanks!!!

Passing on some of my wire DVDs - Wire Names

rileyroo — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:24:45 GMT

Hey fellow wire workers!!! What a great forum!!! I've been working in wire for about three years and really love it!!! My big thing was learning how to make the wire name necklaces. I tried and tried but had a hard time learning...I then turned to the "MASTER" Preston Reuther...and with the help of his DVDs and lots of practice, I learned how to make the wire names!!! I have made tons of them for my friends and family. I enjoy making them for newborn babies especially, because there are some CRAZY spellings out there!!!

I just wanted you guys to know that I am passing on the 6DVD set for WAY less than I paid for it. If you have not tried the wire names you really should...It is very fun!!! It's listed on ebay this week, just search under "wire name dvd" if you would like to take on this new adventure!!!

-zooopaws

Buying high quality Gemstone Beads

EmilyGrayJewels — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 19:36:33 GMT

Hi there - can anyone help me? I am new to the site and wondered whether anyone can give me some good pointers as to where to buy high quality (A to AAA) gemstone beads from (not ebay). I am based in England, UK, but will buy from international sellers! Thank you so much for your help, Emily

Wire form closure options? Solder? Glue?

dressagewoman — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 01:31:13 GMT

I am making a lot of wire horsehead pendants, like this one prototyped in brass (I usually use silver or gold-filled wire). I've been work hardening the wire and leaving the form open, but they would be sturdier and less likely to snag if I closed the shape where the neck meets the spiral that defines the cheek, or double it back around and join at both "cheek" and "shoulder". With one like this that is all metal, I could solder with no problems, but I often embellish the manes with crystals, pearls, gemstones and I don't want to heat those or dunk them in pickle. What options do I have? Non-firescale prone wire (argentium, fine silver) and a heat sink? E6000? Figure out how to wrap a joint there? I don't have a very sophisticated soldering setup, just a butane torch. Would appreciate any suggestions people may have.

Tools for making jump rings

jyang201 — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:30:58 GMT

Other than buying an expensive jump ring maker, what do you use as mandrels for making jump rings in metric sizes?
The clerks at the hardware stores clearly thought I was mental when I asked for metric drill bits.

What do you do if the coil of wire doesn't want to slide off the mandrel? I used a Crayola coloring pencil as a mandrel because it was the only thing I could find that was 7 mm. The coil wouldn't come off; perhaps the wooden pencil allowed the coil to be wound too tightly. Does this happen with metal mandrels, too?

Janet

How do I prevent marking st. silver when making loops?

chloe7 — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:25:17 GMT

No matter what gauge wire I use or which tools I always seem to leave marks on the loops and links.

I use sterling silver for just about everything. Is there a certain gauge & hardness that works best for loops & links?

The tools I use are mid priced. Are more expensive ones better?

I would appreciate any help on this.

Linda