beginner's tips & tricks for
sterling silver wire

needle nose pliers (rounded and flat )

chain nose pliers (straight bent)

wire snips, cutters or flush cutters (flush or end cutters work best and save time)

wire (sterling silver wire is recommended)

Safety and oxidization minimizing tips:

• 
  ALWAYS hold both ends of the wire as you cut it. When you make cuts the loose end of the wire most times flies. It can fly into your eyes and if it doesn't do that it can become lost, this is why I always recommend using safety glasses. Although every precaution can be attempted there are always a few pieces that will fly!
  
• Make sure your hands are dry and clean. Any oils can cause the silver to tarnish. I recommend using gloves when working with sterling silver.
  
• Protect your eyes with safety glasses! (I can’t say this enough)
  
• Take precautionary measures if grinding or filing the wire. Always use the appropriate face mask during these applications!

Applications of wire gauges:

• Rings - bands 16,14 gauge
• Ear wires 22,21,20 gauge
• Bracelets 18, 16, 14 gauge
• Jump rings 22,21,20,18 gauge

(these are just the most popular application guages though the possibilities are endless!)

One of the more difficult skills of wire bending is doing so without making marks on the wire. Using round nose pliers usually used for making loops will leave marks on both sides of the wire. Even chain nose pliers will mark the wire if they slip. Here are a few more suggestions to help minimize marks.

• Learn to grip the wire firmly and tightly to prevent slipping, try not to hold on too tightly so that you cannot work with the wire. The proper gripping pressure is something that, with practice can be used to minimize marks on your wire.
• Minimize use of the round nose pliers to areas where there is no other choice. Such as like making loops and wrapping bead links. Use Chain Nose or Bent Chain Nose Pliers for gripping and holding the wire.
• Use the right tool.

I help this guide was helpful! Please look at some of my other guides and reviews! Thanks!