A paper clip should be about the same as a needle tip. They are way smaller than a drill bit, or screwdriver. I didn't think I would be able to thread it, using such a tightly wrapped coil. I found that rayon seemed to work better than cotton, but either one is fine. The real trick is getting the amount just right. You do need a small piece to be able to thread it through. Then, a flavor wick on top, so it won't leak. I had to change my wicking about 4 times, but I did get it working great. Even at .8 ohms, it has no problem keeping up with chain vaping, but that is with a thinner liquid. I am about to try another one. You probably want a thinner wire like 30 or 32 ga. It needs to fit in the grommets, thicker is harder. If you check out Pegasus Vape Academy on youtube, he has a lot of videos on building the proper coil. I think he calls it luxury vaping. You want to maximixe your experience.