Wire Gauges: In reference to wire gauge sizes, the larger the number, the smaller the diameter of the wire.  The most commonly used sizes for wire wrapping are 20 to 24 gauge.

 

26 Gauge – extra fine – for very small and delicate projects

24 Gauge – fine – for pearls and most gemstones – easy to work with

22 Gauge – medium – fairly universal for glass beads, fits some pearls and gemstones

20 Gauge – medium heavy – great for earwires, clasps or larger beads

18 Gauge – heavy – often good for chainmaille or when a heavier look is needed

16 Gauge – heavy – often used as a base to wrap finer wires around

14 Gauge – heavy – often used as a base to wrap finer wire around

12 Gauge – very heavy – hard to work with – good for rings and buckles

 

Wire Temper: Measures the amount of spring in the wire.

 

Soft: Has no spring when you bend it and is good for making wire beads.

Half-Hard: Has some spring, but is still malleable. It is good for basic wirework because it holds its shape well.