Draw Wire to Gauge
2 hoursAnneal sterling wire and draw through drawplate to consistent gauge for links.
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Learn chain making project from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
Anneal sterling wire and draw through drawplate to consistent gauge for links.
Wrap wire around mandrel rod at consistent tension to form tight coil for sawing links.
Saw individual jump rings, close with flat pliers leaving minimal gap for solder.
Link pattern per design, solder each joint with easy solder, and tumble finish.
Links per inch ≈ 25.4 ÷ (wire diameter + inner diameter) for simple round links.
Always saw coils from the same side so link gaps align for closing.
Use easy solder for final links so hard joints do not reflow.
Sketch link sequence before assembly — one reversed link ruins symmetry.