Pliers: - These are by far the most important tools you will buy. They are your hands when working with small objects. Although important they needn’t be expensive. Most cheap tool stalls in your local town market will have small inexpensive pliers, but avoid any that have serrated jaws, as these will mark the silver. Even with smooth jawed pliers it is worthwhile rubbing them down with emery paper to remove any sharp edges on the jaws. Pliers range from a couple of pounds up to many tens of pounds. Most jewellery suppliers will be able to offer a budget range. Cheaper pliers will have “Lap” joints like scissors; that will wear loose, especially with long nose pliers. The more professional ones will have “Box” joints which helps the jaws stay aligned. Cost aside, it is what feels right to you in your hands. I find the bent nose versions very useful.

For starters, a couple of pairs of snipe nose pliers and a pair of round nose pliers will suffice.

As soon as you can afford them buy, a  pair of parallel action pliers. These are specially made so that the jaws open and close parallel to each other. This means that you can use them to straighten wire and flatten silver without “pinching” it as could happen with normal pliers. Although a little more expensive, these really are a must. Remember to get them from your jewellery supplier with smooth jaws. Personally I prefer spring loaded versions.

Box Jointed  (pro)                     Lap Joint     (cheap)             Paralell action