pugdog
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Jan 16, 2005, 2:38 PM
Post #2 of 2
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Part of the problem is the wire. Tigertail is "old" stuff, not the high tech new age material available today.
There are 21 and 49 strand beading wires. They are very soft and flexible, and very strong. They are not susceptible to kinking and breaking, and can even be knotted (though crimping is suggested).
49 strand is more supple and flexible than the 21 strand, but there is a bit more cost, just like the 21 strand is more costly than tiger tail.
Accuflex is Firemountains brand, and since they have a 100% quality/money back guarantee, their materials are guaranteed, so if they didn't perform, they would be taking a loss.
The other major brand is Softflex, which is more widely available in retail outlets
Beadalon is slowly catching up, but their quality is not quite the same as the other two.
We have had no problems with Accuflex in over 2 years, and we stock it for our customers.
Many people report problems with Softflex, the major one seems to be the coating tears or comes off easier than it seems to with Accuflex. The coating keeps the strands together, and prevents oxidation, and other problems -- including rust. (yes, stainless steel will rust).
So, yes, quickly move away from the Tigertail to one of the 49 strand wires.
Beadalon (in 21 and 49 strands) is available in most crafts stores now.
We have used, and have been happy with Accuflex in all widths 0.012, 0.014, 0.019 and 0.024. We prefer the 0.024, because of strength, and our tendency to use heavier stones and make bracelets. It's a 40 lb test, while the 0.019 is only about 20 lb test.
0.019 will go through perls, 0.024 in general will not.
Hope this helps.
PUGDOG's Rock & Bead Shop
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
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