Intro to Chain Making
Intro to Chain Making
Introduction to Chain Making
When: Saturdays 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM October 18, 25 Nov 1, 8
Class description:
This course is for students curious about making basic chains for jewelry design. The course will run for four weeks and each week will feature a new, basic design to get your creative ideas flowing. Within each session, students will learn how to construct a 6 to 7-inch long bracelet from 18ga round wire without the need for soldering. The bracelets can be finished as completed pieces of jewelry, or students can use them as "starters" to continue on their own to make into longer necklaces. Students are encouraged to bring notebooks to class to record their experience and information needed to construct each type of chain. Students will have the option to make their designs in sterling silver, Copper and or Brass.
Please select an option during check out.
Please see cancellation policy
Week 1:
Students will learn how to make links and jump rings from wire using basic jeweler's tools. By the end of the lesson, students will know how to make, cut, and join links: a basic skill needed for the remaining classes. To practice their new skills, students will complete a basic 7-inch long, "2 by 2" curb chain with the links they make.
Week 2:
Using skills learned in week 1, students will make a Byzantine weave chain which is a modified box chain. This chain will certainly inspire more complex designs as students explore their creativity with jewelry making.
Week 3:
Continuing their journey to create more complicated designs, students in this session will learn to create the Queen's link a.k.a box chain. This chain takes on serpentine appearance with a square profile, proving to be as eye-catching as it is very comfortable to wear.
Week 4:
To conclude the course, students will learn how to make basic findings to complete their chain designs allowing them to be securely worn on the wrist or neck. Students will be shown how to make "S" clasp catches, hook and loop catches, and toggle pairs. As a final chain design, students will construct a 3-ring mobius chain. Each "link" in this chain consists of three interwoven links resembling a floret. The sheer number of links in this chain lends to its strength and durability as well as its unique visual appeal.