Round nosed pliers have finely tapered cone-shaped jaws which are used for forming loops in wire. We use these pliers in creating a basic simple loop (as used in eyepins and beaded dangles) and wrapped loops which create secure closed beaded links, as well as beaded dangles and wire wrapped briolettes.
Round nosed pliers are one of the most important tools for making wire jewelry. You will be using them a LOT!
Here are some things to consider when choosing a pair of round nosed pliers:
• Make sure you choose a pair that will fit comfortably in your hands. If you have small hands, choose a plier with a shorter handle.
• Don’t discount the importance of a comfortable grip! Hard rubber handles can become uncomfortable quickly, so look for something that has soft material coating the handles.
• Ergonomic construction is always a huge plus. Handles specifically designed for ease of holding as well as reduced tension on the hinge mechanism mean less stress for your hands and more creative time for you!
• Another thing to look for in a round nosed plier is the length of the jaw and the fineness of the tip. The longer the jaw, the more versatility you have for creating various size loops. Form loops near the larger end for larger loops, and near the tip for finer loops.
For fine detailed work, I recommend Baby Wubber’s Round Nose Pliers. They are a good high quality tool at a reasonable price and have a very fine tip – 1 mm at the small ends – so you can make the tiniest loops in your smaller gauge wire (18- 30 g).
Classic Wubber’s Round Nose Pliers are great for working with larger gauge wire (12 – 28 g) and have a 1.5mm tip.
Wubber’s pliers in general are very well made and comfortable to use and in my opinion, meet all of the criteria above!