Soft Flex Beading Wire is available in four diameters. Let us help you figure out which diameter is most suited for the jewelry you are making. Watch the video below and reference the diameters to make an informed descision. Larger diameters will withstand abrasive beads and rough handling (rocking back and forth on the wrist). Smaller diameters are fantastic for delicate beads like pearls and tiny diamonds.
Which Diameter Should I Use?
Soft Flex Company manufactures four diameters of bead stringing wire. It is important that you choose the correct one for your needs. Problems with stringing tend to occur when someone is using the wrong diameter for the type of beads that they are using in their design. The best rule of thumb is to use the thickest wire that will fit through your beads once. We don't suggest you double back through a bead after the crimp. That means you are selecting a diameter that may not be as durable and strong. If you are crimping correctly, you would not need to double back for security.
Very Fine .010 (only available in Soft Touch and Econoflex Wire) is constructed of 7 micro stainless steel wires. As soft as thread, with the strength of steel. This diameter is widely used for illusion style necklaces. The 1mm Soft Flex Crimp Tube is typically recommended for diameter .010 in Soft Touch and should be crimped with the Micro Crimping Pliers.
Shop Very Fine .010 diameter flexible beading wire
Fine .014 is designed for softer, less abrasive materials such as freshwater pearls and seed beads. Diameter .014 offers the softness and flexibility of pearl stringing threads yet has the strength of stainless steel.
Shop Fine .014 diameter flexible beading wire
Medium .019 was designed for use with small to medium glass beads, Austrian crystals, silver, pewter, 80% of freshwater pearls and seed beads. Recommended when you are designing with a variety of materials.
Shop Medium .019 diameter flexilble beading wire
Heavy .024 was designed for abrasive materials and designs that will meet excessive movement such as watchbands and bracelets. It's great for multi-strand designs, African trade beads and large stones.
Shop Heavy .024 diameter flexible beading wire
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Sara Oehler (pronounced Ay-ler) is a well-known jewelry designer living in the Bay Area. Sara is the author of several beading books, including her latest title, written with Kristen Fagan, Seed Bead Revolution. She has designed and written for numerous publications including: BeadStyle, Bead&Button, Bead Trends, Stringing, Jewelry in Fashion Trends, Simply Beads, The Flow and Today's Creative Home Arts. Currently, Sara is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Soft Flex Company.Ask Sara Bead Expert
Blog: softflexcompany.com/beading-blog
Email: Sara@SoftFlexCompany.com