Those nasty little burrs on metal can make a beautiful piece of jewelry irritating to wear. Like a fine dress with a scratchy label. Furthermore, pierced earrings that have not been filed properly can really hurt sensitive ears. Files are also used to smooth out nicks in the wire. Needle files are perfect for wire work. Needle files come in a variety of styles: equalling, barrette, crossing, half–round, round, square, three square, and more. For most wire work you will do just fine with the equalling and round needle files.

You will make the most of a file if you file against a surface such as a bench block. Oh yes, and file in one direction (away from you). Your files only cut in one direction and using a file like an emery board will shorten its life.