Memory Wire Size & Gauge Information

••• C5Media/iStock/GettyImages

Memory wire is a stiff, pre-coiled wire that returns to its original shape after it has been distorted or pulled apart. It is commonly used for making beaded jewelry and is typically available in varying sizes, suitable for necklaces, bracelets or rings.

AWG

The thickness of memory wire is measured on the American wire gauge (AWG) scale. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire and vice versa. The most common thicknesses of memory wire used in jewelry making are 18-gauge (0.0403 inches) and 20-gauge (0.032 inches).

Thickness

Lower gauge, thicker memory wire, such as 16-gauge, is generally considered too thick and heavy to be used in wire wrapping, although it can be used to create other decorative effects. Higher gauge, thinner memory wire, such as 22-gauge and 24-gauge, is considered too thin for free-form shaping.

Cutting/Shaping

An important point to note about memory wire of any size or gauge is that it is too stiff for jewelry cutters and pliers and may notch the tools; regular wire cutters and pliers should be used for cutting and shaping memory wire.

Related Articles

How to Make an Electrical Wire
Types of Electrical Cable
How to Build a Magnetic Coil
How Does a Toroidal Transformer Work?
How to Calculate Volume in a Wire
How to Calculate the Length of Cable on a Drum
How to Make a Buzz Wire Game
What Is Nichrome Wire Used for?
How to Create an Electromagnetic Field
How to Create a Powerful Magnetic Field
How to Make a Cobalt Atom Model
How to Make a Metal Detector Search Coil
How to Make a Round Shield
Rebar Size for Slabs
How to Make a Capacitor
How to Calculate Conductance
How to Calculate Motor Current With Winding Resistance
How to Increase the Strength of an Electromagnet
The Advantages of Soldering
How to Use a Chinese Abacus

Dont Go!

We Have More Great Sciencing Articles!