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 wire work because it holds its shape well.

 

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