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Wire is a fun departure for those used to working with
yarn. It comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Wire sizing is described
in numerical gauge, with higher numbers for thinner wire and lower numbers
for thicker wire. Typically,
wire
sized at 28 gauge and above is used for knit and crochet.
Wire has memory and stiffness that yarn doesn’t have. This makes it
harder on your hands and harder on your tools. Don't use your prize tools
for these projects: use steel or aluminum tools since wood, bamboo and
plastic will scratch. To get the crisp results, it is necessary to pull the
row or round lengthways to reveal the crisp definition of the stitches: a
process of "blocking as you go".
Work with wire deliberately by moving slow. While it is possible to rip
up stitches, this kinks the wire and reduces the workability. The wire can
only be worked so many times before it will break. Since wire retains the
shape you give it, get that shape right the first time and avoid mistakes to
avoid overworking the wire.
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