How to Choose Wires Gauges?

The term gauge is use for the measurement of wires either in its size, thickness or diameter.

Different projects will require different gauges of wires. For bigger jewelries pieces and for making frames, 16g is normally used, sometimes artisan may use 14g or even 12g for frames. Misused of finer wires in making bigger Frame will result a shaky piece.  As for wrapping and weaving, wires that are 8-10g apart will be an idea. (Example: wrapping a 28g wires around the 18g or 20g wires). Wire gauges which are closer apart than mentioned will be harder to be wrapping around. 

You may find different suppliers using different measurement as shown in the chart below. Knowing exactly the diameter of the wires required in project guarantee a much effective work . In this book, both the gauge numbers and AWG (American wire standard) will be stated, do note that the higher in gauge numbers are actually referring to finer wires. It is also common that the measurements are either rounded up or down. Hence, a 22g wires could also refer as 0.6mm.

There are also wires available in odd gauge numbers which are not shown in the chart here as there are normally for certain purposes that only the artisans will know, and only certain craft shops will have them.  However, I have included the 21g wires here as it is commonly use in earring hooks. 

GA/ g: gauge

AWG: American Wire Gauge

SWG: Standard Wire Gauge

You might like to just toy with the different gauges available at start. Do let me know if you have any difficulties in this area. I am happy to answer any question here.

~Maggie~