Hello all,
I’ve seen some of your posts in the archives and I realize I’m in
the middle of a community of people with talents far greater than
mine. But, I hope you’ll have some ideas that I can use in my own
work, however humble it is. I’ve only taken up wire wrapping, or
jewelery making from wire. I have one piece under my belt, and after
encouragement from fellow ebayers, I put it up for auction. Time will
tell if it is liked by anyone. It is very simple.
This email contains a range of questions, please excuse the length.
For my first piece, a bracelet, I used 24g full hard sterling silver
round wire. I have been told by other ebay wire wrappers that 24g
full hard is not strong enough for my intended use. Please see
attached photos by going here:
http://www.poochistailor.com/auctionbracelet.html
I would like to work in Argentium Sterling Silver. I need help
understanding what to buy though. I was told that 20-22gage would be
strong enough in full hard. I can’t find argentium for sale in full
hard.
I thought I read that Argentium could be hardened by the artist -
after the piece is complete - but I don’t think that option is
available to me, since my pieces will contain semi-precious gems,
possibly lampwork beads, and sometimes czech glass etc. I don’t have
access to a kiln. I don’t have the ability at this time (nor can I do
it where I live now) for a torch of any kind.
Another wire wrapper from eBay said I should always wrap each link
(think hangman’s noose style wrap) and hide the tail ends of wire,
and insure better strength. I did not do that for this piece, should
I have? Do I need to do so always? Have I committed a major mistake?
Your answer and thoughts would be so appreciated! I’m trying very
hard to learn. I really enjoy this work, and have already come to
feel like pliers are extensions of me!
By the way - I emailed a company called G&S that was recommended
here, inquiring over their wire. Am still waiting for a reply from
them. I can’t find their location displayed on their web site. Where
are they located?
Thank you in advance. I look forward to your advice.
Best,
Lynn