Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

I would like to make findings using wires. How can I make these? What kind of wire should I use and how can I make a secure finding so that the stone or gem I want to attach will be secure?

- Rose

There are many types of findings you can make using wire. Check out these handy instructions for making headpins, jump rings, clasps, basic shapes and wire wrapping stones to get you started.

Wire is available in many types of metal, including gold-filled, sterling silver and copper. There are also many gauges ranging from 30-gauge (finest) to 12-gauge in tempers from dead-soft to full-hard. You can also select square, half-round and twisted which are decorative but can also be functional. 

The type of metal you choose is typically a personal choice and usually dictated by the type of metal in your design or the color and quality of the beads or other materials in your design. The size (or gauge) wire is usually based on selecting the heaviest gauge suitable for the bead-hole size or the strength needed for the findings you are making. 

When making a clasp, 14-guage is usually a good place to start, and for ear wires 22- or 20-gauge are best, so they fit through the pierced ear. The temper you choose is based on the type of finding you are making. 

- Tammy Honaman, Author, Jewelry-Making Expert and Educator