Question 1

What gauge wire should I use for jewelry making?

Accepted Answer

Use 20-22 gauge wire for structural pieces like ring bands, ear wires, and frames, since it holds its shape. Drop to 26-28 gauge for wrapping beads, weaving, and delicate detail work where flexibility matters. Copper and brass are forgiving for beginners; sterling silver and gold-fill cost more but resist tarnish. Listings should state gauge, metal, and whether the wire is dead-soft, half-hard, or hard.

Question 2

What cord is best for macrame and plant hangers?

Accepted Answer

Choose 3-5mm cotton cord for macrame wall hangings and plant holders; single-strand gives crisp knots, while 3-ply braided holds weight without fraying. A small wall hanging needs roughly 30-50 yards, so check spool length before buying. Natural cotton, jute, and hemp are the common picks. Expect $8-$25 per spool, with hand-dyed colors costing a few dollars more and shipping in about a week.

Question 3

How do I pick the right candle wick size?

Accepted Answer

Match the wick to your container's inside diameter, which most makers list directly. A 2-inch vessel typically uses a small pre-waxed cotton wick; wider 3-4 inch jars need a larger series or multiple wicks. Wood wicks give a crackle and suit soy and coconut waxes. Always test-burn one candle first, since wax type and fragrance load change the burn. Wick packs usually run $4-$15.

Question 4

What's the difference between string, twine, and cord?

Accepted Answer

String is thin and lightweight, good for tags, ornaments, and gift wrap. Twine is twisted from multiple plies, slightly thicker and sturdier, common in baker's twine for packaging and rustic decor. Cord is the heaviest and often braided or rope-like, used for macrame, bag straps, and bracelets. Diameter is the quick tell: string under 1mm, twine 1-2mm, cord 2mm and up.

Question 5

How much string or wire should I buy for one project?

Accepted Answer

Buy 15-25% more than your pattern calls for to cover knots, tails, wrapping, and mistakes. Macrame eats length fast, so a finished piece often needs four times its height in cord. Jewelry wrapping uses far less, but having extra avoids re-ordering mid-project. Listings show total yardage or coil length, and many makers sell sample lengths so you can test a color or gauge first.

Question 6

Which materials hold up for outdoor or wet projects?

Accepted Answer

Pick waxed cotton, polyester, nylon, or coated wire for anything exposed to moisture, since untreated cotton and jute weaken and mildew when wet. Fishing line and braided poly hold up for hanging outdoor decor and beading that gets handled. Galvanized or coated craft wire resists rust better than bare steel. For garden and patio macrame, look for UV-resistant polypropylene rope rated for outdoor use.

String, Cord & Wire for Crafting

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