The Wired Stamper

Before I get to the web-sites, I just want to clarify that I don't mean that a wired stamper is one who has had enough caffiene to be able to stamp a gross of greeting cards...this column is about the use of wire on your stamped projects.

Many stampers have already discovered the joys of using wire in their cards and home decor items, but if you haven't you'll want to visit these web-sites for more information on this twisted accent.

One of the original players in the craft wire area was Artistic Wire. They've come along way in the past couple of years and now provide one of the most beautiful and extensive lines of quality wire and wire working products. Their website at http://www.artisticwire.com has a wealth of information from books to techniques and tools. They have several experts, namely Julianna Hudgins and Kathy Peterson, who have developed ways to make any wire project easier. Both have appeared many times on Carol Duvall's show on HGTV and other craft t.v. shows, so you maybe familiar already with their styles.

Another site with bountiful information is http://polymerclayexpress.com and it will introduce you to another element, polymer clay, that will also enhance your stamping experience.(Of course, that is a whole "nother" article).

One of the things you'll run into at any wire site is this strange lingo of gauges. Wire comes in gauges of all types. They are listed numerically. The odd thing about wire is the smaller the number, the larger the wire. So 10 gauge wire is huge, while 32 gauge wire is very, very fine. If you are looking to use the wire in a paper application, you may want to work with a 22-28 gauge. An accent piece can certainly be l8 gauge or larger, but remember if you are choosing to anchor it with your paper you'll have to punch a pretty big hole!

A great site for ideas on what to do with different gauges comes from the U.K..http://www.wire-magic.co.uk lists a variety of gauge wires and the projects they are best suited for...plus they have some amazing photos. There are simple projects, like a spiral paper clip, a star bookmark and a gorgeous candleholder to get you started. Think of the star with your favorite celestial stamp and some pearl ex!

You'll want to purchase some tools to use with your wire. Nylon jaw pliers are a must, as they allow you to curve and bend the wire without scratching any coating the wire has on it. Wire jigs with pegs are usually clear, so you can lay them on any pattern and create the design by wrapping the wire around the pegs. Wire cutters are a definite must if you want your scissors to stay useable! Visit http://www.magicscraps.com/C_tool.html for a good list of products. Of course, the other sites also feature tools. Artistic Wire has a great wire

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