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Organized Storage for Wire

by Susan LeGuyader
There are so many options out there when it comes to wire storage. I've tried several, until I came up with a way that works for me and my studio, but also the way I work. Hanging on pegs? Yep, tried that and kept knocking wire off. Thrown in a lidded box? Sure, then spend long minutes searching for the gauge I needed. Loose on the bench? Yikes, I don't even want to go there.
Instructions
I like to keep my sterling and fine silver wire separated from the steel, copper, bronze, brass and nickel wire that I also work with. And since silver is so much more expensive, I want to be able to keep it in the best shape as well.
I've always wanted to file my wire but the thought of using a filing cabinet seemed ridiculous. Then I was at Target in the office supplies (I LOVE OFFICE SUPPLIES, not going to lie) and saw this expandable file folder made out of plastic (Photo 1). And I knew I found my answer. The plastic was perfect, as it will hold up to the sharp pointy pieces of wire.
Susan LeGuyader's Organized Storage for Wire - , Store Wire Jewelry, , wire storage
(Bonus tip) Now, I already mark my tags on the wire for easier identification, all the necessary info in on the back of the tag, in permanent marker. For example: FS - fine silver; SS - sterling silver; gauge; round; square; HH - half hard... you get my point. So if I have a bunch of wire on my bench, I can easily see what I'm looking for and frankly, the info from the manufacturer is very small and my eyesight isn't what it used to be.

Then, loaded into the expandable file folder, each slot marked with gauge. Each group of wire marked with easily seen identifying information. Added bonus, it is super portable and I can take it anywhere with me.
Susan LeGuyader's Organized Storage for Wire - , Store Wire Jewelry, , wire storage
Susan LeGuyader's Organized Storage for Wire - , Store Wire Jewelry, , wire storage

Materials

20 Gauge Round Full Hard Argentium .940 Silver Wire
H19-20FH
  • Lesson Quantity: 2.00 feet
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 5FT
  • Price: $19.75
  • Gold Club Price: $14.81
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20 Gauge Round Half Hard .925 Sterling Silver Wire
H8-20H
  • Lesson Quantity: 2.00 feet
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 5FT
  • Price: $17.98
  • Gold Club Price: $13.49
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Tools

WireJewelry - Essentials Jewelry Pliers Set with Case, Set of 5
G15-21
  • G15-21
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $124.95
  • Gold Club Price: $93.71
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  • Category: Storage
  • Technique(s): Storage

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