Daily Wire Tip Mar. 8: Specific Wire Gauges in Class

Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip for
March 8, 2011

Question:

I’ve started taking wire classes and each teacher asks for specific sizes, such as 21-gauge. Seems like each class wants a different size, and it’s never the sizes I already have. Is it critical to have the exact size, or can you go up or down one number?

-Phyllis in North Hollywood, California

Answer:

Hi Phyllis, when you take a class with an instructor who does not provide a kit, or you choose to bring your own supplies, it is important to use the same items as the instructor specifies. Usually the project chosen is to teach techniques and the wire used is for that reason. Sometimes an alternate gauge can be used, but not an alternate temper (hardness). I would suggest contacting the instructor personally to ask if they would approve of you using a different gauge for the project in that specific class. Sometimes an instructor will include comments during the class, suggesting different wire gauges and tempers for that project, sometimes not. You could always ask during the class, as others would like to know and may not think to ask that question – one reason why group classes are good.

After taking a class, you can always experiment altering gauges at home, and make notes in your designer’s notebook for future reference. Often these experiments will result in happy accidents, meaning new designs!

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong

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One Comment

1. 

   Tami Brewer

   March 12, 2011 at 1:11 pm

   I do alot of chainmaile and even though there doesn’t appear to be a big difference in a 20ga and a 21ga, when you go to make the chainmail there is a big difference. The project with the 20ga will be more open and airy and the 21ga won’t be as open and airy.