Wirework Supplies
These pages give information and pictures about what materials and supplies you will need
when you are beading. We do not sell any beading supplies, but here's a list of online and offline suppliers. If you just arrived at this page, be sure to check out the full list of beading supplies.
Pliers are necessary for working with wire.
Make sure you buy them from a beading store or mail order beading source, as the ones
sold in hardware stores are not fine enough for jewelry making.
Working with Wire Tutorial
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Wire
Wire is sold in different sizes which are called gauges.
For example, 20-guage wire is thicker than 24-gauge, and
suitable for most projects like earrings. 22-gauge is
usually strong
enough to hold when a lighter wire is desired.
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Memory Wire
Memory wire holds its circular shape. Cut a length of it,
string on some beads, and bend the ends in a loop. It
should stay on your neck or wrist without a clasp.
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Round Nose Pliers
Essential for making loops. Buy your tools from a bead shop
or catalog, as hardware store models are usually too big
or imprecise.
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Chain Nose Pliers
These pliers are rounded on the outside but have flat inside
edges. They are good for gripping the wire or jump ring.
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Wire Cutters
Diagonal wire cutters should cut flush.
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Jig
A jig is a board with pegs in it that is useful for
bending wire into specific shapes that can be
replicated. They can be made or bought.
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Books - more indepth information on beading with wire
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