i've just recently started to get serious about using more wire in my projects (it has more instant gratification then stiching), but i'm having some problems. the biggest one is that when i do pretty much anything, the ends of the wire are wicked sharp, and im scared to wear  it..it might (well, it has) cut me and/or caught on clothing.

so my question is... what's the best wayand/or tool to smoth down the ends?

thanks

Hi,buy a small set of little files to file your wire ends......try Fire Mountain, Rio Grande, most jewelry making suppliers carry them!!!

I find that "flush cutters" are helpful too, you can get a closer cut.  As often as you can, turn the exposed end back into the work, burying the tip of the wire.  Jeanie 

Gotta agree w/ Jeanie that burying your ends is the best solution.  Of course, part of this problem depends on what gauge wire you're using.  Can you fill us in on that?

After I finish a section I generally make a triple wrap & then poke the end into another loopy section or bead.  I make sure that the end is away from the skin & as short as possible.  If I'm feeling insecure about the wire holding, I may do the triple wrap twice a short distance apart.

Another little inexpensive tool has a burr cup on the end that will round off the edges of the wire.  I've only found it in one size, so it does matter what gauge you're using [larger vs smaller].  The burr cup does work on a number of smaller gauges.  It can be easier to handle than the files if the wire is narrow & hard to get at or colored.

sher

i usually use 20 or 22 gauge, and almost always silver. im definitly going to try to find my flush cuters & start using them insted and when gas prices go down and i have extra money in my checking acount i'll buy some files. thanks guys!

To finish off your wrapped loops, another trick is to tuck down the end using the "step 2" hole of your crimpers.  Since the hole is round -- not straight like the jaws of chain-nose or round-nose pliers -- it forces the wire to the right shape, and the jaws are narrow so you won't squash any nearby beads.