Bangle cores

by Lesley Watt
(Dorset)

Hi Stacy - what gauge wire do you use for the core of your bangles like 'In a coil' & what's the minimum gauge suitable for cores?

Stacy's Answer:


Thanks for your question Lesley! I see that you are from the UK, so I'll be using American Wire Gauge (AWG) sizes instead of the Standard Wire Gauge (SWG), but I have given the millimeter (mm)thickness of the AWG wires.

When I first started making wire bangles, I used a lighter weight core 16 gauge AWG (1.3mm) because, being new to wire I thought it really heavy! :) However, I found that the 16 gauge easily lost it's shape. (the only thing worse than putting on a bangle and having the wire smoosh out of shape - is having a customer do that!)

I've found that 12 gauge (2.0mm) wire works really well for bangles and holds it's shape nicely - especially in softer copper wire. In Sterling silver, I still prefer using 12 gauge, but will sometimes use 14 gauge (1.6mm) as well. Another deciding factor is the hole size of any beads you may wish to use! I often have to drill or stretch the holes of metal and glass beads when using the heavier 12 gauge..... I feel the extra work is well worth the effort!

Whether I'm using 12 gauge or 14 gauge wire, Sterling silver or copper, I always work harden the wire before adding the embellishments. This gives it strength and spring. Wire has a memory of sorts, so when you harden it then bend it into a circle, it's going to want to 'spring' back open. I find that the 'spring' helps to keep a clasp pulled tightly against the eyepin which keeps the clasp closed.

Comments for Bangle cores

Click here to add your own comments

Sep 08, 2010
Thanks Stacey
by: Lesley Watt

... this is really helpful and i'm off to order some heavy wire.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Jewelry Q & A.