The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 3 Coil

We are back with Step 3 of the 5 C’s of wire wrapping. This time, we’ll focus on the wrapped coil that closes the circle you created and makes a secure connection.

Once again we will alternate between plier and wire movements. In this step, when we are moving the wire the pliers will be moving, however they are moving just as an extension to your hand. Technically, you could wrap the coil by holding the wire with your fingers, but this is not always possible with short wire tails or heavier gauge wires, so it is best to learn to use the pliers. Moving the pliers as an extension to your hand is okay, but don’t twist or pivot them during wire movements. Remember, one movement at a time.

Plier(s): Hold the circle you just created with the chain-nose pliers. The short wire tail coming from the circle should be pointed up to the ceiling. Grab the tip of the wire tail with the tip of your pliers (round-nose or chain-nose).

Wire: Wrap the wire tail towards you, around the other wire for one half turn. Remember not to pivot your pliers.

Plier: Open up your pliers and reposition them so your hand is parallel to the table again, this will prevent the end of the wire from wrapping around your pliers. You may end of with a small U shape at the end of your tail, and it is okay to keep grabbing the wire with your pliers here.

Repeat the last two wire and plier movements until you have 2-3 wraps.

TIP: When possible, end your wrapped coil so that the wire tail is perpendicular to the circle. We’ll talk about how this will help you cut more cleanly in Step 4 next week.

Click below to navigate to the next lessons in this series:

Five Lessons to Perfect Wire Wrapped Loops
The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 1: The Circle
The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 2: Connect
The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 3: Coil
The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 4: Cover then Cut
The Five Cs of Wire Wrapping Step 5: Clean