Question about "files"

Jewelry Discussion
1

Hi, I’m making some necklaces out of chain and wire (22 gauge) and I
need to file the ends of the cut wire, but I don’t know what kind of
file to use. I have looked in many jewelry supply catalogs, but
there are so many different kinds I don’t know which one to buy. I
would appreciate any help you can give me.

Thanks, Donna

2

Donna, I tried files on fine wire and, for the most part, they were
a disaster.

My solution was cup burs that would fit any gauge of wire. Fast,
easy, uniform, and no points or sharp angles.

The wire needs to be applied head on because it’s soo easy to put it
at too great an angle and saw off a chunk of the wire. Easy goes it
if you need to roll it a bit.

Frif

3 
I need to file the ends of the cut wire, but I don't know what
kind of file to use.

Hi Donna, If you need to file the ends flush and flat for soldering,
use a flat file, or the flat side of a half-round file. If you only
need to “finish” the ends of the wire for a smooth appearance and
feel, I would recommend using a cup bur (or “burr”) in a flex shaft
or Dremel. They come in a variety of sizes and give a nice, uniform,
rounded end to wires, prongs, rod, etc.

All the best,
Dave
Dave Sebaste
Sebaste Studio and
Carolina Artisans’ Gallery
Charlotte, NC (USA)
dave@sebaste.com
http://www.CarolinaArtisans.com

4 
    Hi, I'm making some necklaces out of chain and wire (22 gauge)
and I need to file the ends of the cut wire, but I don't know what
kind of file to use.  I have looked in many jewelry supply
catalogs, but there are so many different kinds I don't know which
one to buy.  I would appreciate any help you can give me. "

I have found the best way to remove burrs when making wire loops for
chains is to pop the loops into a small jar with some steel shot,
water, and a little liquid soap (or commercially available barrelling
liquid). Then agitate the jar for a couple of minutes and all the
burrs will be gone. Magic! and so much quicker and neater than filing
each one by hand. This does, however, not work for small gauge wire
as all the loops get tangled together. Good luck with your chain
making! Mark Vardy