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Sorting and Using Scrap Wire

by Dale Armstrong
Question #1:

When saving scrap bits of wire (the ones too small to use for any other purpose), should the various types of wire (brass, sterling, copper, gold-filled) be stored separately or can they all go in a single container?

-Sherri in Cody, Wyoming

Question #2:

Your Tip of the Day states you can always find a use for 1` - 2` pieces of half round wire. I haven`t figured out a use for that size of piece yet - What can I use small pieces for?


Instructions
Answer #1:

In my opinion, wire scraps should be sorted as follows:

  • Argentium and sterling silver together;
  • Each karat of gold separately such as 10kt, 12kt, 14kt, and 18kt;
  • Each karat of gold-filled separately such as 10kt gold filled, 12kt gold filled, and 14kt gold filled;
  • Brass;
  • Copper;
  • Nickel;
  • Steel;
    And then plated items. If you know what the base metal is, you can place it in the appropriate base metal bin.

    These days about everyone one is taking metal scraps, from your local jewelry store to the recycle center. If your metals are properly sorted, it will be easier for you to sell them, as most purchasers will require them to have been separated.
    • Answer #2:

    I have several scrap containers on my workbench one for half-round wire, one for round, and another for everything else.
    Yes, I separate the metals too.

    A 1-2 inch piece of half-round wire makes 3 to 4 wraps on a frame, depending on how many wires you're binding together.

    When making several pieces, I pile all half-round scraps on my mouse pad and use them until they're gone.

    While working, watch how much wire it takes to make a set of bindings you'll see where small scraps can be used.

    Several patterns on my new DVDs even call for using half-round scraps!
    Answers contributed by Dale `Cougar` Armstrong

    Materials

    Wire Options
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    12 Bead Containers - Organizer
    G20-13
    • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
    • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
    • Price: $6.97
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    • Category: General Education
    • Technique(s): Selling

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