Question: I have read that enameled copper is soft. I’m wondering if using them for an entire bracelet is strong enough. Should I incorporate some argentium with the enameled copper? Also, how do your enameled copper rings compare to those from your competitors, who charge less for them? I do love the brilliant colors you offer.Since I am relatively new to chainmaille, I am learning lots. Unfortunately, I live in an area where there is not a source to buy rings or learn more about chainmaille. Thank you for your anticipated response to my inquiry. Sue Thanks so much for you inquiry. You have asked some good questions! Enameled copper wire comes in different size gauges( the width of the actual wire, where 18 gauge is approximately 1mm, 20 gauge is 0.8mm; so larger numbers are thinner) and we then turn it into different size rings(we measure in mm ID-inside dimension). “Soft” vs sturdy is a result of both the gauge and the ring size. So the proper combination of each needs to be used, not only in coated copper wires, but in any wires, to create a sturdy product as well as the ability to weave the desired pattern. The majority of our rings, and the products we make are created with 18 gauge wire in the 3.75mm-4.5mm range. This results in a sturdy product and many weaves work well and hold nicely with that size. We do use 20 gauge(thinner) wire for some applications, a petite pink and silver byzantine bracelet is one in our shop that comes to mind. This is a strong pattern where the connections are reinforced and we feel comfortable with that. Otherwise, we don’t work with 20 gauge, nor do we work with any thinner gauges for chainmaille. We do use it for wire wrapping. We mix enameled copper wire with other wires such as raw copper or gold filled for aesthetic purposes, not to lend strength. We arrive at our prices by calculating our wire per ring cost and then factor in time, equipment, listing charges, packaging costs and shipping costs. We make our rings one batch at a time and take great care to make them the highest quality possible. We usually make and ship within 2 days. There are some significant price differences in the coated copper wire that is available. The price of 16 gauge wire is TWICE that of 18 gauge, which in turn is almost TWICE 20 gauge. The SILVERED colors-some of my favorites, are also significantly more expensive than the “regular” colors; then there is German Plated Gold and Silver, which is a heavier coating, and they are even more. We also love the colors and love the endless possibilities it offers to both us to create and our customers in choices. I don’t know if you have noticed that I have just posted a sample pack in our new handmade supplies shop, UnkamenSupplies. We are just in the process of getting our supplies moved over there so we have more room here for creations. I am hoping to have that done this week. I hope that we have answered your questions and please feel free to ask away! We love chainmaille and jewelry making and love helping others! HUGS! |
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