Jeweler's Files Simplified
by Denise Peck
Nothing is a better friend to a wire jewelry maker than a good file. So many sharp edges and so many rough cuts, I couldn't live without my files. But what do all those numbers mean when you go to choose a file.
Instructions
Just like wire gauges, there's a pretty simple formula to those numbers. You already know that the larger the number, the thinner the gauge of wire. Conversely, the lower the number file, the coarser it is. Generally, files run from 00-6. So 00 is the coarsest and 6 is the finest. #2 or #4 are good medium files.
Remember, files only "cut", or smooth in one direction, so never file back and forth. That is a complete waste of energy. Push the saw away from you to file, lift the file off the metal, and bring it back to push it away from you again.
Keep your files rust-free and clean and they should last for years.
Denise Peck's Jeweler's Files Simplified - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, files

Materials

Wire
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Sheet
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Tools

Needle File Handle
HAN-942.00
  • HAN-942.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $3.97
  • Gold Club Price: $2.98
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6PC File Set
FIL-912.10
  • FIL-912.10
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $39.97
  • Gold Club Price: $29.98
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10 Piece Diamond Needle Files - 140mm X 3mm
G14-8
  • G14-8
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $13.57
  • Gold Club Price: $10.18
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Needle File Set Pack of 5
FIL-970.00
  • FIL-970.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $11.57
  • Gold Club Price: $8.68
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6 Piece Assorted File Set with Wooden Handle
G14-7
  • G14-7
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $5.57
  • Gold Club Price: $4.18
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  • Category: Tools
  • Technique(s): Tools