The technique of wire-wrapping has been used for centuries to create bracelets, necklaces and many other items. Before soldering even existed it provided a way of mechanically joining components. Today in a world of mass production, contemporary wire wrapped jewelry is quite unique. These pieces are made by hand, not by machine and great care is taken in every detail of construction.
Fortunately the internet has offered them a way of selling their pieces to a worldwide market. This means that buyers are exposed to a very wide variety of choices. They are able to compare items and their prices more easily than ever before. In this competitive market, designers are offering always looking for ways to make their more exciting and creative, using all kinds of different materials, shapes, colors and sizes.
The first wire was made by the Egyptians by pounding metal into sheets and cutting these into thin strips. Today wires are available in a great array of colors, shapes, thicknesses and patterns. Stirling silver is one of the most popular wires used by many designers as it holds its shape well but is still soft enough to shape. Copper and brass wires are easily shaped but do not hold the shape as well.
There are so many different types available and choice depends largely on the type of piece being made. The gauge number reflects the thickness and hardness and the lower the number, the heavier the gauge. Heavy gauges are used for making bangles, chokers and cuff bracelets. The lightest gauge is very thin.
The techniques used by designers also vary. All of these techniques involve joining components mechanically without soldering or heat and only simple tools are required. Custom components like clasps, bezels, eye pins and ear wires are created and the quality of these hand-made components gives the finished product its strength. On occasion ready made components called findings may be used.
No expensive machines are used and amazing pieces can be made from a few simple components and some uncomplicated tools. This offers designers an opportunity to really express their individual style without putting their products out of the price range of most customers. The challenge of creating contemporary pieces that compliment current styles motivates them to constantly try new, cutting edge designs.
These pieces make wonderful gifts because they can be chosen to reflect the style and personality of the person who will be wearing them. The fact that designers are constantly looking for ways to push the boundaries means that they are producing pieces of great creativity and originality. When giving such a gift, one can be sure that one is giving a one-of-a-kind piece.
As there is much competition for customers, designers selling their products online need to keep their customers satisfied and coming back for more. They need to make sure that policies with regard to returns and exchanges as well as shipping are clearly stated. Reading customer reviews online is helpful when trying to establish the reputation of a particular supplier. Many designers are even willing to customize pieces to suit the particular requirements of a customer.
Fortunately the internet has offered them a way of selling their pieces to a worldwide market. This means that buyers are exposed to a very wide variety of choices. They are able to compare items and their prices more easily than ever before. In this competitive market, designers are offering always looking for ways to make their more exciting and creative, using all kinds of different materials, shapes, colors and sizes.
The first wire was made by the Egyptians by pounding metal into sheets and cutting these into thin strips. Today wires are available in a great array of colors, shapes, thicknesses and patterns. Stirling silver is one of the most popular wires used by many designers as it holds its shape well but is still soft enough to shape. Copper and brass wires are easily shaped but do not hold the shape as well.
There are so many different types available and choice depends largely on the type of piece being made. The gauge number reflects the thickness and hardness and the lower the number, the heavier the gauge. Heavy gauges are used for making bangles, chokers and cuff bracelets. The lightest gauge is very thin.
The techniques used by designers also vary. All of these techniques involve joining components mechanically without soldering or heat and only simple tools are required. Custom components like clasps, bezels, eye pins and ear wires are created and the quality of these hand-made components gives the finished product its strength. On occasion ready made components called findings may be used.
No expensive machines are used and amazing pieces can be made from a few simple components and some uncomplicated tools. This offers designers an opportunity to really express their individual style without putting their products out of the price range of most customers. The challenge of creating contemporary pieces that compliment current styles motivates them to constantly try new, cutting edge designs.
These pieces make wonderful gifts because they can be chosen to reflect the style and personality of the person who will be wearing them. The fact that designers are constantly looking for ways to push the boundaries means that they are producing pieces of great creativity and originality. When giving such a gift, one can be sure that one is giving a one-of-a-kind piece.
As there is much competition for customers, designers selling their products online need to keep their customers satisfied and coming back for more. They need to make sure that policies with regard to returns and exchanges as well as shipping are clearly stated. Reading customer reviews online is helpful when trying to establish the reputation of a particular supplier. Many designers are even willing to customize pieces to suit the particular requirements of a customer.