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Perfect Chain for Wire Jewelry
by Dale Armstrong
Question:

I am having trouble deciding the correct-sized chain to purchase for my projects. Is there a standard or a rule of thumb I can refer to?

-Dorothy in Lackawanna, New York
Instructions
Answer:

Working with chain is so much fun! The size of chain used for a project can be chosen by the desired finished look of a design, where the piece of jewelry is to be worn, and your good common sense, Dorothy. If we think about it, chain is made of metal, and metal is a strong material; however, the gauge and size of either individual links or the combination of links should play a large part in your choice.

Let's talk about some wire jewelry designs that utilize chain.

Earrings should be relatively lightweight, and when using chain to make them long, choose either small links or small gauge. You can add flash by using a larger, more ornate chain that is made in a small gauge.
Dale Armstrong's Perfect Chain for Wire Jewelry - , General Education, Design, Chain earrings
Dale Armstrong's Perfect Chain for Wire Jewelry - , General Education, Design, Chain drop earrings
Necklaces - the sky is the limit with these gorgeous creations! You can mix and attach multiple style chains together on a single focal point, or just choose a chain design to match the style you are creating. Check out a Google Image Search using this phrase: images chain necklace.
Bracelets and anklets need to be a bit more sturdy, because these are worn in high traffic areas. Chain used for these items should be of a heavier gauge and firmly secured by using either wrapped loops or a pair of jump rings at the closures.
Dale Armstrong's Perfect Chain for Wire Jewelry - , General Education, Design, Chain and beads
So really, Dorothy, there really is no "rule of thumb" for choosing chain. I just wouldn't recommend using a very small-gauge, fine chain to support anything really heavy, because the chain could bite into a person's skin, and possibly break.

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong

Materials

Chains
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): Design

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