Wirework, whisks, bread nails and other items were made by both hobos and wire factories. In the parish of Gnosjö in Småland, wirework was already being made at the end of the 18th century. Initially, it was a sideline for farmers and crofters, but towards the end of the 19th century, wirework was also made by some metal factories.

The ‘wire jackets’ were made of iron wire, sometimes tinned, bought in hardware stores or from wire drawing shops. The tool, a pair of pliers, was easy to carry in your pocket. Whisks, window hooks, pot racks and iron feet were sold or exchanged for food or overnight accommodation. More elaborate bread baskets and candlesticks were sometimes decorated with wool yarn in bright colors.

Set-up hook in sturdy wirework. Makes it possible to adjust a window from “slightly ajar” to half open. Old model from Torsåker, Gästrikland.