And Then There Was Chain Maille...

When I started making jewelry, the one thing I said I did not want to do was make one particular style of jewelry, for one particular audience. I also said I wanted to explore other things and learn about the different techniques, which I've done by taking classes and purchasing books. I love working with different types of beads, chain, and wire..but then there's chain maille! For those of you who know me well, you know I am not a fan of making it myself, but I think the finished pieces are absolutely beautiful! It's the tedious work involved that drives me to another project. However, having said that, I still indulge in at least 2-3 chain maille projects a year..that's just about enough for my fingers and patience.If you don't know what I'm talking about, chain maille is a technique that involves intertwining jump ring, after jump ring until you have a finished project with two pairs of pliers. If you don't do it often, its torture on your fingers. But I have a few friends who love the technique and they typically can do one or two projects, while watching television, they find it mesmorizing.

This past weekend, I picked up two kits while at BeadFest, one earring project and a necklace. Tonight I completed the earrings, so I guess it will be another 6 months til I tackle the necklace. If you'd like to really see some beautiful chain maille jewelry using other techniques, check out a fellow jewelry maker, Gladys Ruediger at Silver and Spice Jewelry. Then drop back by here and leave a comment and let me know your favorite design from her site.

Unveiling and intertwining,
Dee