So, when I started working with wire in my handmade jewelry, I would make small spirals components and such, I’d really scuff it up. It drove me nuts! So, what to do, to keep that pristine unmarred shine on your sterling silver? Something I like to use is called “Tool Magic” the one I have is blue (I’ve seen some in clear). What it basically is, is liquid plastic. (Affordable too!) I’ve go to tell you, it works wonders on my wire!! When I make my handmade jewelry there isn’t a scratch! The downside is that it takes 2-3 hours to dry. When you first coat it, it looks a little puffy, but when it’s dry, it really hugs your jewelry tool. It also starts getting a little difficult to coat your jewelry tools properly after the blue goo is half gone. But, yes I still love it!

I’ve also recently tried to use masking tape on my flat nosed pliers (sounded a lot faster and cheaper thing to do). I anticipated some sticky gook to come off from the tape, so I used an old pair of flat nosed pliers. I have one word to say… HORRIBLE!!! Don’t waste your time carefully wrapping the masking tape, because it’s a waste!! Then, I had to spend all this time trying to take the sticky stuff from the tape off of my pliers. What a waste of time! Have I mentioned it was a waste of my time?!!

Here is another option,(so I’ve heard thru the grapevine) I guess expensive pliers won’t mar the wire! When I get some, I’ll follow up, make some handmade jewelry and let you know!

I’ve also got some nylon jaws. They’re great to straighten wire and flatten small designs, but they don’t grip the wire very well when I am trying to shape it!