Hammering wire is a common technique in jewelry making to add texture, strength, and visual interest to your designs. Here are some tips to help you hammer wire effectively.
1. Choose the Right Wire
- Material: Use soft metals like copper, silver, or gold-filled wire for easier hammering. Hardened or stainless steel wire is more difficult to shape.
- Gauge: Thicker gauges (e.g., 16-20 gauge) are better for hammering as they hold their shape well. Thinner gauges may flatten or break.
2. Use the Right Tools
- Hammers: Use a jewelry hammer with a flat, polished face for smooth finishes or a textured hammer for decorative effects.
- Anvil or Bench Block: Work on a sturdy, flat surface like a steel bench block or anvil to ensure even hammering.
- Nylon or Rawhide Hammer: Use these for shaping wire without marring the surface before final hammering.
3. Prepare the Wire
- Straighten the Wire: Use nylon-jaw pliers or your hands to straighten the wire before hammering.
- Annealing: If the wire is too hard, anneal it (heat it with a torch and quench in water) to soften it for easier hammering.
4. Hammering Techniques
- Light, Even Strikes: Use controlled, consistent strikes to avoid dents or over-flattening the wire.
- Work in Sections: Hammer small sections at a time, moving along the wire gradually.
- Rotate the Wire: Turn the wire as you hammer to ensure even flattening on all sides
5. Protect the Wire
- Masking Tape: Wrap the wire in masking tape to prevent scratches or tool marks.
- Polished Hammer Face: Ensure your hammer face is smooth and clean to avoid transferring imperfections to the wire.
6. Create Texture
- Flat Hammer: For a smooth, flattened look.
- Textured Hammer: Use a cross-peen or ball-peen hammer for decorative patterns.
- Chasing Tools: Use specialized tools to add intricate designs.
7. Finish the Wire
- Sand and Polish: Use sandpaper or a polishing cloth to smooth out any rough edges or scratches.
- Tumble: If possible, use a jewelry tumbler to work-harden and polish the wire.
8. Safety Tips
- Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying metal fragments.
- Work on a Stable Surface: Ensure your workbench is secure to avoid accidents.
By following these tips, you can create beautifully hammered wire components for your jewelry designs!