Wire Storage

You can easily locate just the right gauge wire you need if you store it in an office supply divided plastic envelope. I label the dividers appropriately by gauge (10, 12, 14, etc.) and then "file" my wire in the proper section. If the wire arrives from the vendor in a plastic bag, I often leave it in the bag when I file it; yet, the larger container is airtight enough when I close it, that the plastic bags really aren't needed. Too many plastic bags become cumbersome and I often just eliminate them. This is not a problem as I don't believe I've had any oxidation of my stored wire.

I store all my square wire in the last section of the container. Initially, I stored it under the gauge with the round wire; however, I often grabbed square wire instead of round when I was in a hurry. It works better for me to store all the square wire together (and avoid getting annoyed by grabbing the wrong wire).

I've found it easy to take my wire to a class or wireworkers meeting since it is neatly arranged and simple to carry. This way I always have the gauge I need.

Give this tip a try. I think you'll like it.