Total Wire
24.2"
Wire Cost
$0.20
Weight
0.6 oz
Gauge pairing: Use 18–20 AWG for structural base wire and 26–28 AWG for decorative wrapping.
Practice: Start with copper wire—it is inexpensive and forgiving for learning techniques.
Tools: Flat-nose and round-nose pliers plus flush cutters are the essential trio.
| Wire Type | Gauge | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Wire | 20 AWG | 7.1" |
| Base Wire | 20 AWG | 6.4" |
| Wrapping Wire | 26 AWG | 7.6" |
| Waste (15%) | — | 3.2" |
Wire-wrapped pendants sell for $25–$150+ depending on stone quality and wire material
20 AWG pricing shown. Thinner gauges cost less per foot.
Inputs
Result
A pendant for a 25×18mm cabochon needs about 6.4 inches of frame wire, 5.8 inches of base wire, and 29.7 inches of wrapping wire. Including 15% waste, total is 47.8 inches. In copper, wire cost is just $0.35.
Inputs
Result
Earrings for 18×13mm stones use less wire than pendants due to the smaller base multiplier. Total wire is 30.5 inches including waste. Sterling silver at 22/28 AWG costs about $4.03 for the pair.
Inputs
Result
A gold-filled bracelet with a large 40×30mm stone and 2 wrapping layers requires 152.7 inches total. The bracelet multiplier increases wrapping wire significantly. Gold-filled wire at 18/26 AWG runs $60.38.
For a standard cabochon pendant with a 25×18mm stone, you need about 18–24 inches of base wire (18–20 AWG) for the frame and bail, plus 24–40 inches of wrapping wire (26–28 AWG) for decoration. Add 15% for waste and practice bends. Total wire depends on the number of wrapping layers and your design complexity.
| Stone Size | Frame Wire | Wrap Wire (1 layer) | Total with Waste |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18×13mm (small) | ~10" | ~20" | ~35" |
| 25×18mm (medium) | ~12" | ~30" | ~48" |
| 40×30mm (large) | ~16" | ~50" | ~76" |
Use 18–20 AWG (thicker) for structural base and frame wire that holds the stone, and 26–28 AWG (thinner) for decorative wrapping. 20 AWG is the most versatile base gauge—thick enough for support but flexible enough to shape. 22 AWG works for both base and wrapping on smaller pieces.
| Gauge | Diameter | Best Use | Copper Cost/ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 AWG | 1.02mm | Heavy frames, bangles | $0.15 |
| 20 AWG | 0.81mm | Standard base wire | $0.12 |
| 26 AWG | 0.40mm | Wrapping, weaving | $0.06 |
| 28 AWG | 0.32mm | Fine detail wrapping | $0.05 |
Copper wire projects cost $0.50–$3 in wire. Sterling silver pendants cost $5–25. Gold-filled pieces cost $15–60. The stone or cabochon is usually the biggest expense, ranging from $2 for tumbled stones to $50+ for quality labradorite or turquoise cabs. Tools are a one-time investment of $15–40.
| Wire Type | Pendant Cost | Ring Cost | Bracelet Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper | $1–$3 | $0.50–$1 | $2–$5 |
| Silver-Filled | $5–$10 | $2–$4 | $8–$15 |
| Sterling Silver | $10–$25 | $4–$8 | $15–$30 |
| Gold-Filled | $20–$60 | $10–$20 | $30–$80 |
Dead soft wire is fully annealed and bends very easily—ideal for intricate wrapping and weaving. Half hard wire has been work-hardened and holds its shape better, making it the standard choice for structural frames and bail loops. Most jewelers use half hard for base wire and dead soft for wrapping wire.
| Temper | Flexibility | Shape Retention | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dead Soft | Very pliable | Low | Wrapping & weaving wire |
| Half Hard | Moderate | Good | Frames, bails, structural |
| Full Hard | Stiff | Excellent | Rarely used in wrapping |
Measure the ring size in inches (US size 7 = ~2.14" inner circumference). The shank wire needs about 4–6 inches per wrap around the mandrel. Add the stone setting wire (stone perimeter × 1.3) and decorative wrapping. A typical wire ring uses 12–24 inches of base wire and 8–16 inches of wrapping wire.
| Ring Style | Base Wire | Wrap Wire | Total Wire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Band | ~12" | ~8" | ~23" |
| Cabochon Ring | ~18" | ~16" | ~39" |
| Cocktail Ring | ~24" | ~30" | ~62" |
Discover tools for jewelry making, resin art, candle crafting, quilting, and more.
Last Updated: Mar 9, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.