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A jewelry draw plate is a specialized tool used in the jewelry-making process to reduce the diameter of wire. It consists of a series of progressively smaller holes through which wire is pulled to thin it out. Typically made from materials like tungsten carbide or steel, draw plates are essential for jewelers who want to create custom wire sizes for their projects.
To use a jewelry draw plate:
Start by choosing the appropriate hole size that is slightly smaller than your wire’s current diameter.
Secure the draw plate in a vise or hold it firmly.
Using pliers, grip the end of the wire and pull it through the chosen hole in the draw plate.
Continue pulling the wire through progressively smaller holes until the desired thickness is achieved.
It’s essential to anneal (soften) the wire periodically during the drawing process to prevent it from becoming too brittle.
When selecting a jewelry draw plate:
Draw plates are typically made from durable materials like tungsten carbide or steel to withstand the pressure of drawing wire.
Annealing softens the wire, making it more malleable and preventing it from becoming too brittle during the drawing process.
While primarily designed for metals, some draw plates can be used for other materials, but always check the tool’s specifications.
Keep your draw plate clean, and free from debris, and store it in a dry place to prevent rusting.
Yes, there are various types of draw plates, including those with round, square, or oval holes, and some designed for specific materials.
Yes, draw plates can be used to create custom wire sizes for chain-making.