What is a draw plate in jewellery making?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A draw plate is a flat, hardened metal tool, traditionally made from steel or tungsten carbide, containing a series of holes in progressively smaller sizes and different shapes, including round, half-round, square and oval. A jeweller threads wire through a hole and pulls it through to reduce its diameter or change its profile; repeating the process through smaller holes gradually draws the wire down to exactly the gauge needed. It is a fundamental bench tool for anyone making chains, rings or any piece that requires fine wire.
Frequently asked questions
- How do you use a draw plate?
- You taper the end of your wire so it fits through the target hole, grip the tip with draw tongs, and pull the wire through firmly and smoothly. The wire emerges thinner and work-hardened, so it may need annealing before the next pass.
- What materials are draw plates made from?
- Traditional bench draw plates are steel, but tungsten carbide plates are more durable and resist wear better. For delicate or specialty applications, sapphire or diamond dies are used in industrial wire drawing.
- What can you make with a draw plate?
- Any jewellery that requires a specific wire gauge or profile; common uses include chain links, ear wires, ring shanks, and Viking knit wire work. It is also useful for making your own jump rings in exactly the size you need.
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