Chain Maille

SEPTEMBER 9-15, 2024 WILDACRES - WEEK 2

MARILOU HILLENBRAND - BEGINNING AND INTERMEDIATE CHAIN MAILLE

Chain Maille is a two thousand-year-old art form originally used to create garments worn for protection by warriors from Europe, the Middle East and the Orient. Modern approaches use these classical patterns of cold-connected jump rings for sculpture and jewelry.

​Requirements

• The desire to learn chainmaille and have fun doing it

• Students will need to purchase certain tools and supplies. Estimated cost depends on the designs you wish to create.

In this class you will learn the basics of how jump rings are made and how to open and close jump rings properly. Jump rings and tools are supplied as part of the cost of the class. The cost will depend on the number of completed projects and what tools are purchased.  You are welcome to bring your own.

​Beginning

The Beginning Class is a great starting point for those wanting to explore the world of chain making.

• Demonstrate proficiency in chainmaille basics, including tools, terminology, methods and techniques.

• Construct basic chains in multiple combinations and configurations.

• Learn about jump rings, tools, metals, aspect ratio and basic techniques.

Projects include:

• Earrings and bracelets

Tools required: Jeweler’s pliers (flat nose, bent nose, needle nose as preferred).

 Intermediate

The Intermediate Student is encouraged to bring their own tools, jump rings, and designs.  The instructor will have additional designs available for your use.  Let the instructor know if you want her to purchase jump rings for the designs she makes available. 

Notes:  I only work with argentium sterling silver.  I use prepurchased jump rings and will have a supply of them in kits for different designs we will be making.  I will also have kits made up for other designs you might be interested in later in the class.  I also will have tools that can be purchased as needed.

Lab Fee:  $25

Estimated Materials Cost:  $200- $300 (depending on number of projects completed)

Prerequisites:  None for beginners