Wig Jig Delphi Product Review

There are several definitions for the word 'jig', but for wirework the term refers to a hand tool used as a template for making a form. If you are making jewelry, you can use a jig to make clasps, components, and earwires. You could make your own jig using a block of wood and some nails, but you get a lot more flexibility using one of the jigs manufactured specifically for making jewelry. After researching options for jigs, I purchased Wig Jig's Delphi Model.

Here's why I picked this jig:

• It's transparent. There are lots of published designs for the jig that use this feature.
• It's sturdy! The plastic is thick, with holes sized just right for the pegs.
• The pegs used in the jig are metal. You can strong-arm your wire all you want and you won't hurt the jig or the pegs.
• The jig can be used in a vise.
• Designs can be hammered/hardened directly on the jig.
• Pegs do not protrude through the bottom of the jig, so you can hold it in your hand and turn it around or pick it up. I actually turn my jig more often than I turn wire.
• This particular jig has closely-spaced holes for making small, intricate designs.

Here's my jig (pictured pretty close to actual size):

I've had this jig for a couple of years now and I still love it! As you can see from the photo, my jig has some scratches from heavy use, however, I've never managed to break it or damage one of its holes, which is pretty amazing, given the abuse it takes. I purchased my jig directly from the Wig Jig website, but their products are available at many bead and crafts stores. After I placed my order, I got a nice e-mail confirmation. I got my jig very quickly and it was well-packaged. I've used wire as thick as 16-gauge on this jig, but the spacing of the pegs really makes it best-suited for wire that is 18 gauge and thinner (Wig Jig makes other jigs for larger wire and heavier components). The jig is easy and fun to use - my young sons like to make components using it. I can't praise the jig highly enough. The only negative I can think of is that the jig can be scratched either with wire or contact with metal tools. However, the scratching can be avoided if you are careful about how you cut your wire and don't harden designs on the jig. Do you have a jig and want to try it out? Here's a tutorial for making earwires.

Please feel free to e-mail me if you have comments about the WigJig Delphi jig or questions about my experience with it.

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