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Daily Wire Tip Nov. 29: How to Prevent Pin Vise From Breaking Wires

By on November 29, 2009
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
November 29, 2009

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Question:

I have a pin vise to twist wire, but every time I try to use it, it bites off the end of the wire before I can twist it.  I was told to use only square wire, which I have. I’ve watched the videos and tried to do what I’ve seen you do. What am I doing wrong?

Answer:

Unfortunately I have seen this happen in my classrooms as well and you are probably not doing anything ‘wrong’, rather the tool was improperly finished when it was made.  I have tried to remedy this situation by filing the inside surfaces of the point that holds the wire, but then it doesn’t grip firmly. The best solution is to return the device to the source, with a note that describes what is wrong with the tool, and ask for a replacement.

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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4 Comments

  1. avatar

    Deana Rae Higgins

    November 29, 2009 at 12:26 pm

    Try twisting both hands when you twist the wire. It helps take the pressure off the pin vise. Also swap hands and twist, just remember to go the other way when you swap.

  2. avatar

    Dorothy Ridenour

    November 29, 2009 at 1:58 pm

    I\’ve never had this problem but, I sure have had problems with the screw tightening type of pin vise. I have tossed them and purchased a slide pin vise made by Grobet. Yes, they are more expensive, but what a difference!!! This slide type pin vise saves time and it also has a narrow tapered point which is convenient for twisting wires for final top decoration.

  3. avatar

    Jessie Adams

    November 30, 2009 at 4:13 am

    your not the only one that’s fought with the ( insert unrepeatable insult here) tool. I have found only two ways that work.
    a) twist by hand with two pliers- long tedious and a risk of inconsistant results or
    b) use a cordless drill with adjustabe speed. Drawback is it’s a bit cumbersome.
    I know Dale has something smaller on the site but I’ve never had the opportunity to try it. Besides I’m a cheapskate.
    Have fun,
    Jessie

  4. avatar

    janet anderson

    December 2, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    I like all the new tips that are given on this site.