Debate: Types of wire for shaping and support

General discussion about Origami, Papers, Diagramming, ...
Post Reply

What wire and gauge do you prefer for shaping?

Aluminum -- 12 gauge (coat hanger) or larger
1
33%
Aluminum -- 20 gauge (paperclip) to 13 gauge
2
67%
Aluminum -- smaller than 20 gauge
0
No votes
Steel -- 12 gauge (coat hanger) or larger
0
No votes
Steel -- 20 gauge (paperclip) to 13 gauge
0
No votes
Steel -- smaller than 20 gauge
0
No votes
Copper -- 12 gauge (coat hanger) or larger
0
No votes
Copper -- 20 gauge (paperclip) to 13 gauge
0
No votes
Copper -- smaller than 20 gauge
0
No votes
Non-metal -- 12 gauge (coat hanger) or larger
0
No votes
Non-metal -- 20 gauge (paperclip) to 13 gauge
0
No votes
Non-metal -- smaller than 20 gauge
0
No votes
 
Total votes: 3

User avatar
Foldtastic
Junior Member
Posts: 99
Joined: October 8th, 2014, 5:34 pm
Location: New York, NY
Contact:

Debate: Types of wire for shaping and support

Post by Foldtastic »

As those who have made a RyuJin (or many other models) know, wire is sometimes needed for shaping or support.

Wire is used for shaping models with long curved forms. It is also used to support weight bearing portions of models. When supporting weight bearing portions of models, sometimes the wire is also attached to a base for the model.

The best wire should be thin so it can fit between layers of paper. The gauge of wire is how thick it is. Here is a guide: http://www.whimsie.com/gauge%20wire.html

The material chosen impacts hardness/flexibility and strength. Metals include aluminum, steel, copper, Bronze, titanium, etc. Non-metal materials could be chosen as well. Choosing the proper material is important because it will allow you to have a thinner wire.

Hardness "aka" flexibility is relevant, because harder wires are harder to bend but will be stiffer in the final model. Solid wire is more appropriate than stranded wire because stranded wire is too flexible. Different metals can be treated to change their hardness. Usually hobby wire is sold as soft or 1/2 hard.

Finally there is wire cross-section shape (round, 1/2 round, flat, square).

Let's discuss what wiring people prefer. Other methods for shaping and support (besides MC, glue, or other paper treatments) are open for discussion as well.
User avatar
marckrsh
Junior Member
Posts: 79
Joined: April 17th, 2006, 10:57 pm
Location: New York, NY USA
Contact:

Re: Debate: Types of wire for shaping and support

Post by marckrsh »

I have used a wide variety of gauges for shaping. In some cases, I will use multiple sheets of aluminum foil between layers. It is easier to get curvier flowing effects. - Marc
User avatar
OrigamiGeek
Forum Sensei
Posts: 966
Joined: February 17th, 2012, 2:29 pm
Location: calgary

Re: Debate: Types of wire for shaping and support

Post by OrigamiGeek »

I have a question about shaping wire.
for me when ever I try to shape with wire the wire always comes out or it pokes through the paper, how do you prevent this?
Check out my gallery and don't forget to leave a comment!
shortloldude
Super Member
Posts: 213
Joined: November 22nd, 2009, 3:59 pm

Re: Debate: Types of wire for shaping and support

Post by shortloldude »

I do not really have any experience with shaping origami with wires, but I did use paper clips once. I did it just like in this video by Kade Chan, maybe it will be of some use to others as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1EWjNAI3O4
Please, add me on flickr and tell me what you think!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/53465278@N02/
Post Reply