ok, thanks you guys, and you think thinner is better?

No, thicker is better.  Yes, the smaller/lower the number the thicker the wire.  I use 16-18 gauge.  I like the kind that you use for electrical fences.  Home Depot or Lowes.  I double the wire.  Let's say I cut a piece 7" long.  Fold it in half; now you have a double thickness.  You can either glue it inside the foam or secure it to a piece of sintra if you are going to make a removable rod assembly inside the hand.

Julie

ok, thanks MPGRACE i'll be sure to keep that in mind!

While we are on the subject of wire................. and this is a bit off topic but what is the gauge number for the NiChrome wire used in hot wire cutters ? curious minds want to know.

You can also use plumbers (no lead) solder it is pretty cheap and has a great consistency and you can make many hands with it.

It acts a lot like armature wire but way cheaper for more.

This idea of using plumbers solder is from Dr. Puppet I use to use armature wire.

Daryl H.

I just got some 18 guage wire from Home Depot, so I'm all set now

Good Sunbeatle =] can't wait to see something new! So you know, my method for poseable fingers was inspired by the Project Puppet tutorial, I just simplified it because I don't have the space/workshop to use any kind of power tools to cut wood or dowels! It's kind of a "poor-mans" solution, but the end result works just fine and I've used the method in every one of my puppets =]

Thanks April!