What I've learned about wire wrapping and jewelry making in the last couple weeks

[Pearl Dreams]

Oh, I've had that and it is so annoying.

[MSC]

I have one of those wire rounders. Got it at Michaels'.

It's a cup shaped file. You put your cut-off end of wire into the cup and turn it. It's a bur that makes the end rounder and smoother.

Here is a close up photo at Artbeads.com:
http://www.artbeads.com/tool-115.htm...FYSEswodqtsB7g

Oh! Definitely need this...

[JerseyPearl]

I always "tuck" my wire ends using a super fine needle nose pliers, but that burr looks pretty cool.

[Katbran]

I use the bur and then tuck. No sharp edges to snag on anything. Probably overkill but I feel better if I do it

[Pearl Dreams]

It's available on Amazon as well:

https://www.amazon.com/Wire-Wrapping-Beading-Tool-Round/dp/B000RB7G0O

[Karman]

Kat - oh I definitely mean gold filled wire. I haven't even come close to considering working with real gold! I'd very much prefer a professional piece with that kind of investment I'm still looking for a decent local supplier, online is great but since I'm in Canada my selection is a bit more limited (higher shipping costs and longer waiting times from popular US places) Very true about correcting mistakes...I can't count the number of times I closed and wrapped the loop before inserting the next part of my necklace. At least I got lots of practice!

Cathy - thank you!

Here's my completed second project with the UFO shaped pearls. I ended up using the little rondelles after all.

[SunSeeker]

Great job Karman! I love tin-cups and wire-wrapping too. I also use the tuck method, but I'm curious about the rounding too. I started off practicing a lot with cheapy craft wire then progressed to precious metals. It's also a good idea to invest in decent tools when you're ready. Your hands will thank you!

[Katbran]

The first end is easy as you haven't started to wrap so just round that one...then continue your wrap until you are at the final one..then use the burr on the wire and finish your wrap. You can get the same result if you have a very fine metal file but the burr is easy and it's cheap.

Karman - here is a Canadian supply company https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/Natural...ms-count#items

[Marianne]

I have never had a burr issue with my Lindstrom wire cutters.

[Karman]

Thanks Kat- they sell a lot of head pins but I just need a shop with a good selection of wire gauges, type and material! I have what I need for now.

I haven't had issues with the wire ends yet. I'm able to tuck them so far. Maybe that'll change once I lose my patience for doing wrapping slowly

[Pearly-Whites]

Karmen--That is absolutely beautiful! Such a wonderful and balanced design and use of color and sparkle! Kudos!

[Karman]

Thanks Pearly Whites !

[JerseyPearl]

Really nice! I like the placement of the pearls and stones!

[GemGeek]

I love hoe the first necklace looks on you -- just lovely!

[pattye]

Karman, what a splendid beginning and super eye for design mixing pearls and gems; looks very balanced!