Drawplate

A drawplate is a piece of equipment commonly used in jewelry-making that consists of a flat board with a series of holes, usually tapering in size, down its length. The drawplate is frequently made of steel, although other materials such as carbide or diamond can also be used.

The primary use of a drawplate is to reduce the size of wire or rod in a consistent and controlled manner. The initial wire or rod is passed through the largest hole in the drawplate, and then gradually drawn through smaller and smaller holes until it reaches the desired diameter. This process, also sometimes known as "drawing down," can result in a much stronger wire or rod, with a more uniform diameter and greater surface smoothness than if it were simply hammered or flattened.

One of the main advantages of using a drawplate in jewelry-making is the ability to create fine wires and rods of a consistent diameter that can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, a jeweler may use drawplates to create wire that can be used for intricate decorative work, or to create chains, clasps, and other findings.

Another advantage of using a drawplate is the ability to create a wide range of wire and rod diameters, often without the need to purchase multiple stock sizes. By starting with a larger wire or rod and drawing it down to smaller sizes as needed, jewelers can save money while still being able to create custom sizes for their projects.

In addition to metals, drawplates can also be used with materials such as nylon, wax, and even some types of plastics. This versatility means that drawplates can be a valuable tool for a wide range of jewelry-making projects and can facilitate the creation of highly complex designs.

In summary, a drawplate is an essential tool for jewelry-makers who want to create fine, uniform wire and rod in a range of diameters. Whether used for decorative work or for the creation of findings and other jewelry components, the drawplate offers a high degree of precision and versatility that can help jewelers bring their designs to life.