How to Use a Wire Gauge

by Dale Armstrong
Question:

How do I find out what size my wire is? I'm not sure what wire gauge it is.

-Mary in Santa Rosa, California
Instructions
Answer:

Mary, you can use a wire gauge tool to determine the size of your wire.

Here's how to use it:

Look at the slits on the tool each number/size has a straight-sided slit at the top.

Place your wire into the slits one at a time until you find the one where it fits snugly not too tight, just a gentle rub on both sides.

You can measure round, half round, and square wire with this tool.

For half round wire, measure across the widest point.

For square wire, place the flat sides between the slits.
Dale Armstrong's How to Use a Wire Gauge - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, Wire Gauge
Here's an image of the WireJewelry staff measuring a 14-gauge round piece of copper wire.
Dale Armstrong's How to Use a Wire Gauge - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, Measuring wire

Materials

No materials listed

Tools

AWG American Wire Gauge for All Sizes of Wire - Pack of 1
G7-8
  • G7-8
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $11.95
  • Gold Club Price: $8.96
Add to Bag
Wire Gauge by Euro Tool
GAU-144.10
  • GAU-144.10
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $13.97
  • Gold Club Price: $10.48
Add to Bag
Add All Items to Cart
  • Category: Tools
  • Technique(s): Tools