Ask the Experts Delicate Wrapped Loop Wire Necklace Q&A

Which wire works best when doing a wrapped loop necklace or earrings? Or which gauge? I want it to look delicate.

- Kay

For ease of wrapping, we recommend 20- or 22-gauge half-hard wire. The smaller the number, the thicker the wire. 

A thicker wire will add strength to your piece and it will decrease the possibility of it being crushed or deformed. You may then prefer to switch from half-hard wire to either dead-soft or full-hard wire, depending on the project. Dead-soft wire is easier to bend and form; full-hard wire maintains its shape after being bent.