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September 07, 2013

How to Make Copper Ball Headpins Using Thick Wire


When I did my first post on making copper ball headpins, I was only able to form the ball with thinner (higher gauge) wires.  I don't even think I was able to get it to ball up with 20g wire.  Luckily, some really helpful people commented on the post and suggested that I try making them a little differently.  And it works!


Just to catch you up, what I am talking about here is making headpins with a ball end using copper wire and a butane torch - the type that you use for creme brulee.  Normally, I hold the wire perpendicular to the flame and let the ball climb up the wire.


But some of the people who left comments suggested that I could get a ball headpin with heavier (lower gauge) wire if I held the wire parallel with the flame.  At first, I thought that would mean my hand would be closer to the flame, but it really isn't very different.  As you can see, I use some long needle nosed pliers to do this.  And the amazing thing is how well it works!!


The force of the flame seems to push the end of the wire to melt, and not only was I able to ball 16g wire, but I was able to get some pretty good sized balls on the end.  The picture above shows a variety of headpins that were made using 16g to 20g wire.

Thank you for your comments and help!!

13 comments:

  1. KayzKreationzSeptember 09, 2013

    Cool, thanks for posting. I've been wanting to try making my own headpins, but haven't had time and then wasn't sure how to do it. Can't wait to try this.

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    1. Lisa Yang JewelrySeptember 09, 2013

      For more detailed instructions, see my original post on this topic: http://www.lisayangjewelry.com/2012/11/making-copper-ball-headpins.html
      It also includes information on how to make your own pickle solution without using harsh chemicals. Enjoy!! I love using my torch.

      Delete
  2. Lisa Yang JewelryNovember 26, 2013

    I think mine are textured looking too, so I know what you mean. In my experience, only headpins made with fine silver come out perfectly smooth and round. Since I use copper for more 'rustic' style jewelry, it is not as big a concern. If you were careful, you may be able to buff the balls to be a little smoother, but I'm not sure it would be worth the effort.

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  3. AnonymousJanuary 02, 2015

    thanks for info

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  4. Blossom HillsFebruary 28, 2015

    You are such a life saver Lisa! I have just spent an hour trying to ball up 20g & 18 g copper wire with no success. Now after finding your post, I tried 18g & 16g - Voila! Succuss! Thank you!
    Marilyn

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    Replies
    1. Lisa Yang JewelryFebruary 28, 2015

      I feel ya - I went through the same thing. So glad I could help!

      Delete
  5. AnonymousSeptember 22, 2015

    Thank you for the help. I experienced the same thing with the higher gage copper wire working just fine but not being able to do anything with the 16-20 gage. Sterling silver was a lot easier.

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  6. UnknownFebruary 19, 2016

    Hi Lisa, I've tried this before too. Today with success. Sooo exciting. I've made some longer and balled both ends for some rustic wraps Thanks for the tips.

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  7. Sweet LadybugAugust 12, 2016

    Thanks so much for sharing this with us. It is extremely helpful.

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  8. AnonymousAugust 25, 2016

    Thanks for sharing, I've tried to do this with no luck, I'll try again.

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  9. UnknownMay 10, 2017

    Thanks for This! Getting ready to try now😀😁

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  10. Monica BraxtonAugust 23, 2020

    Question? How long does it take for the copper to begin to ball up? I have tried doing it the "wrong" way you first described, but never holding the wire horizontal in the fire.
    Thank you for your help.

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  11. GazziJuly 23, 2022

    Thank you, very useful

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