Strategies for Starting a Chain Mail Weave
Starting some chain mail weaves can be frustrating because it feels like your fingers are way too fat to hold onto the start while you add the next ring. Or, you just can't seem to find the right path to add the next jump ring.. Or, the beginning rings seem to end up in a jumble-they won't stay oriented the right way while you add the next ring.
Instructions
Here are 3 strategies for starting a chain more easily.
Handles:
Many chains can benefit by adding a "handle" to the first set of jump rings. It gives you something to hold onto at the beginning, tells you which end you started from, and makes the chain easy to pick up.
You can thread a twist tie or a length of scrap wire through those first rings, give it a twist-and shazam!, you've got an instant handle.
Another option is to thread the beginning rings onto a large paper clip.
I don't recommend using a safety pin as a handle because a ring can get caught up in the hinge-part of the pin and be difficult to remove.
Many chains can benefit by adding a "handle" to the first set of jump rings. It gives you something to hold onto at the beginning, tells you which end you started from, and makes the chain easy to pick up.
You can thread a twist tie or a length of scrap wire through those first rings, give it a twist-and shazam!, you've got an instant handle.
Another option is to thread the beginning rings onto a large paper clip.
I don't recommend using a safety pin as a handle because a ring can get caught up in the hinge-part of the pin and be difficult to remove.
Awls:
An awl is a tool with a handle attached to a rigid, pointed length of steel. It is typically used for piercing holes in leather or for marking on metal. A similar tool is used for beading, for making metal clay, and for soldering.
In chain mail we can use one to lift rings, or to locate the path for inserting the next ring.
Alternates to the awl include: a recycled dental pick; a short, thin knitting needle; a crochet hook with a tiny hook; or a length of stiff wire.
The 3rd photo shows an awl being used for making a Byzantine segment. CLICK HERE to read about Marilyn's Top 5 Weaves.
An awl is a tool with a handle attached to a rigid, pointed length of steel. It is typically used for piercing holes in leather or for marking on metal. A similar tool is used for beading, for making metal clay, and for soldering.
In chain mail we can use one to lift rings, or to locate the path for inserting the next ring.
Alternates to the awl include: a recycled dental pick; a short, thin knitting needle; a crochet hook with a tiny hook; or a length of stiff wire.
The 3rd photo shows an awl being used for making a Byzantine segment. CLICK HERE to read about Marilyn's Top 5 Weaves.
Tape:
When the beginning rings end up in a jumble, you can tape them into submission. I don't tape them to my work surface because I want to be able to manipulate the piece in my hands.
I like to use the tape that painters use when painting walls. It's low tack, yet adheres well and doesn't leave a residue.
This photo shows green tape, but your brand could be a different color.
When the beginning rings end up in a jumble, you can tape them into submission. I don't tape them to my work surface because I want to be able to manipulate the piece in my hands.
I like to use the tape that painters use when painting walls. It's low tack, yet adheres well and doesn't leave a residue.
This photo shows green tape, but your brand could be a different color.
1. I set the beginning rings down on the sticky side of a length of tape. I often use an awl to move individual rings into position.
2. When I have the rings where I want them, I tear off smaller pieces of tape to press down on top of those rings.
3. When it's all stable, I'm ready to add the next ring.
Materials
Jump Rings
Tools
Scotch 0.94 Inch Painters Tape for Taping Wires Together
G13-5
- G13-5
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $5.97
- Gold Club Price: $4.48
Straight Steel Pick
CVR-400.30
- CVR-400.30
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $3.95
- Gold Club Price: $2.96
Supply Detail
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- Category: Chain Maille
- Technique(s): Chain Making
Marilyn Gardiner
Other Tips by Marilyn Gardiner
A New Idea for Starting a Chain Maille Weave
Sterling Silver and Glass Cleaner
A Chainmail Bracelet Start Narrow, Make it Wide
Add An Awl To Your Tool Bag
Add Needle Files to Your Tool Bag
Buying Jump Rings Part 1 Avoiding Pitfalls
Buying Jump Rings Part 2 Avoiding the Pitfalls
Combine Chainmail with Links
Adding Needle Files to Your Tool Bag
Finding the Perfect Work Surface
How to Make a Bead Link
Jewelry Care
Keeping Your Pliers Handy
Looking for an Earring Finding
Sizing a Bracelet
How to Open and Close Jump Rings
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