Ask the Experts Wire-Wrapping Q&A

What type of half-round wire do you recommend for wire wrapping jewelry?

- Ivan

Sterling silver and gold-filled half-round wires come in many gauges that can be used to wrap stones, beads and metal components. Thinner gauges (18-21) may be used as bracketing wires when used with square-wire wrapping on cabochons. Heavier gauges (12-16) can stand alone and wrap around focal beads and stones with great success.

If you choose to work with thicker wires, wrap the flat side of the half-round wire tight against the stone's surface using a dead-soft temper. If you'd like to curve parts of the wire outward from the edge of a stone, then a dead-soft temper will work nicely.

Keep a closer eye on the half-round side as you move the wire around the stone. Showing the underside (flat side) can also give you an interesting dimension and flash. Wearing magnifiers and working with nylon-jaw pliers can help you achieve your optimal design.

For instructions on this type of wrapping style view the ''Wrapping Stones and Beads with Half-Round Wire'' how-to video.

- Sandra Lupo, Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist and Instructor