Ask the Experts Wire Cutters Q&A

What is the difference between side cutters and flush cutters? Is one better than the other?

Side cutters are general-purpose wire cutters, not meant for jewelry. They cut by pinching the wire between two beveled edges. This leaves a pointed, V-shaped end on the wire that you would have to file down manually. You never want a rough edge in jewelry, as it can snag clothing and cut skin.

Flush cutters are specifically designed for jewelry and precision work. One side of the blade is flat and gives you a clean, flat cut on one side of the wire. The other side is beveled and pushes the section of wire you’re not going to use in your design into a point. In jewelry making, the pointed side is the side you cut off, and the flush side is the side you keep on your piece.

- Patti