Craft Wire Stainless Steel-Brass-Copper-Aluminium-Titanium Metal Wires

For fine wire wrapping around stones or beads, diameters between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm (28–24 AWG equivalent) are most common. Thinner wire (0.2 mm) works for delicate filigree but requires more care to avoid kinking. Thicker wire (0.8 mm–1 mm) is better for structural frames and clasps. Start with a 1-meter or 5-meter sample to test before committing to a larger spool.

Soft wire has been annealed so it bends easily with minimal springback — ideal for coiling, wrapping, and weaving. Hard wire retains its shape after bending and resists deformation, making it suitable for springs, structural elements, and applications where the wire must hold a set angle. Semi-hard falls between the two: it bends with moderate force and holds its shape reasonably well, which suits ring shanks and ear wires. General temper (listed for Brass, Copper, and Titanium) is a standard commercial temper suitable for most craft applications.

316 and 316L stainless steel contain molybdenum, which significantly improves resistance to chloride-induced pitting compared to 304 stainless steel. For marine or coastal environments, 316L is the recommended choice. Titanium TA2 also offers excellent corrosion resistance and is suitable for saltwater exposure. Brass and copper will develop a natural patina over time and are not recommended for prolonged submersion in saltwater.

Yes. Round-nose pliers, flat-nose pliers, wire cutters, and coiling mandrels all work with these wires. For diameters above 1.5 mm, heavier-duty cutters are recommended to avoid damaging tool jaws. Stainless steel wire is harder than brass or copper and will wear cutting edges faster — use dedicated stainless-rated cutters where possible.

Yes. 1061 aluminium wire is the standard material for bonsai training because it is lightweight, easy to bend by hand, and does not damage bark as readily as copper when applied correctly. Diameters of 1 mm to 3 mm cover most branch thicknesses. Copper wire is also used in bonsai but requires more force to bend and holds its position more firmly — it is preferred for thicker, more resistant branches.

For testing a new diameter or material, the 1-meter or 5-meter options let you verify workability and finish before committing to a larger quantity. For ongoing production, the 10-meter, 20-meter, and 50-meter packs offer a lower per-meter cost. The 500 g and 1 kg bulk spools provide the best value per meter and are suited to workshops or makers who use a specific wire regularly. Approximate meter lengths per 500 g spool are listed in the variant name for stainless steel grades.

Titanium TA2 (commercially pure titanium, Grade 2) is widely used in body jewelry and medical devices due to its biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion. It does not contain nickel, which is a common allergen in lower-grade stainless steels. However, for regulated body jewelry applications, confirm that the specific wire meets the relevant standard (e.g., ASTM F136 or ISO 10993) before use, as wire stock and implant-grade material have different certification requirements.