Holding a piece while working
I received the following question:
"I'm just learning wrapping and am using copper wire until I am skilled enough to move on to silver. When I'm wrapping I sometimes hold the piece steady with pliers, but I'm wondering if this is a bad habit to get into...
I don't know, since silver is a softer metal, if I would put dents in my work if I hold it with pliers.... ?? Is it okay to use pliers, or should one just hold on with your fingers -- and if so, how do you keep the piece stable while wrapping?"
The answer:
I think anything you can do to make your life easier is welcome, even holding pieces with pliers. To avoid making dents on the metal, try buying a product call PLASTI DIP (I bought mine though Amazon) and coat an old pair of chain nose or flat nose pliers with them, so they don't mark your silver. Make sure to use an older pair of pliers.
I alternate between holding pieces with pliers and holding with my hands. When the piece is too delicate or small, I hold it with the pliers.
"I'm just learning wrapping and am using copper wire until I am skilled enough to move on to silver. When I'm wrapping I sometimes hold the piece steady with pliers, but I'm wondering if this is a bad habit to get into...
I don't know, since silver is a softer metal, if I would put dents in my work if I hold it with pliers.... ?? Is it okay to use pliers, or should one just hold on with your fingers -- and if so, how do you keep the piece stable while wrapping?"
The answer:
I think anything you can do to make your life easier is welcome, even holding pieces with pliers. To avoid making dents on the metal, try buying a product call PLASTI DIP (I bought mine though Amazon) and coat an old pair of chain nose or flat nose pliers with them, so they don't mark your silver. Make sure to use an older pair of pliers.
I alternate between holding pieces with pliers and holding with my hands. When the piece is too delicate or small, I hold it with the pliers.
2 Comments:
I have the same question but about a 'third arm' appliance. If you feel these are ok, do you know of any good ones...not too expensive? If so, should I also dip the clamps on that?
Yes, definitely dip the clamps in the solution since the clamps might mark the wire. I don't use these types of gadgets, so I can't recommend any... But a good hardware store should carry them.
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