- What can I make with 16-gauge copper wire?
- It suits sturdy links, ear wires, bangles and bead stringing where the wire passes through larger holes. It is too thick for fine wire-wrapped settings around small stones.
- Does the lacquer coating come off?
- It can wear or be sanded off. Remove it with fine abrasive or a solvent before soldering, since the coating blocks solder.
- Is this wire safe for sensitive skin?
- It is listed as nickel-free and lead-free, which helps people with nickel allergies. The copper itself can still leave a green mark on skin over time.
- Can I bend it with my hands?
- Yes. Medium temper 16-gauge copper bends with firm hand pressure, though pliers give cleaner bends and loops.
- How much wire is in the pack?
- Six spools of one yard each, all in the same 16-gauge copper. There is no mix of gauges despite the assorted name.
- Will it tarnish like bare copper?
- Slower. The lacquer slows tarnish, but it is not permanent, and cut ends and worn spots will darken over time.
- Where is the Beadsmith Craft Wire Assorted Gauges cheapest?
- At houseofgems.com, for $6.33, 49% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.
- Where can I buy the Beadsmith Craft Wire Assorted Gauges?
- 5 stores we checked sell it, including houseofgems.com, SmartPartsCrafts, Walmart, Golden Age Beads, Amazon.