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Forging Copper Wire
by Dale Armstrong
Question:

I shaped a choker wire from 14g dead soft round copper wire. What's the best way to harden it so the choker retains its shape?
Instructions
Answer:

The easiest (and most enjoyable) way to harden 14g round copper is to forge it. Use a chasing hammer with a steel bench block or vise, or get a regular ball peen hammer (if it's been in the garage or basement for a while, use a grinding wheel or sandpaper to smooth both heads). The flat head, on either hammer, will flatten and slightly stretch the metal while hardening it, as well as adding a slight 'rise' to the piece (which you could incorporate into your desired shape) and the ball head can texture it. Experiment first, using a piece about 3 to 5 inches long, so you have enough to hold on to. (The scrap could later become a pair of earrings.) Forging/beating soft wire into different shapes can be a lot of fun!

The project on DVD #4 of the new Intermediate DVD series, introduces forging with a really cool Cuff Bracelet.

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong

Materials

14 Gauge Round Dead Soft Copper Wire
H11-14D
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $1.39
  • Gold Club Price: $1.04
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Tools

Flat Face Chasing Hammer with Wood Handle - Economy
G3-14
  • G3-14
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $11.57
  • Gold Club Price: $8.68
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Intermediate Series - Part 4
DVD-INT4
  • DVD-INT4
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $39.95
  • Gold Club Price: $29.96
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Bench Block Helper with Steel and Nylon Blocks
DAP-500.30
  • DAP-500.30
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $28.95
  • Gold Club Price: $21.71
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6 1/2 Inch Solid Stainless Steel Ball Peen Hammer
G3-18
  • G3-18
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $5.97
  • Gold Club Price: $4.48
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): Forging

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