ArtFire Chainmaille Guild

November Guild Challenge - Free for All

2011-12-02T13:39:00.002-06:00

The November Guild challenge was a free for all. Mainly because I forgot until late to post the challenge and didn't have time to poll the results for a theme. I actually find this to be a very good challenge theme because it leaves the artisans to their own devices. Now, let's see what they same up with!

Barb's Designs

Nightmaiden Designs:

Thank you to our wonderful artisans for participating in this challenge! Happy Holidays and Merry Mailling! :)

Meet SLSCreations!

2011-11-22T09:50:00.002-06:00

Our newest member is SLSCreations. I gave her the same set of questions as everyone else, let's see how she answered:

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler?
About ten years ago I helped a local historical re-enactment group construct a
chainmaille shirt as a tournament prize. Then several years ago I needed jewelry to
compliment a costume for a theatrical production. Unable to find - just the right
thing-, I constructed a necklace and bracelet set.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille?
I like the puzzle, taking all the little pieces and putting together the picture in
my mind's eye.

3) What is your favorite type of ring?
I love all the colors of anodized aluminium, any size, any gauge, just bright
and bold.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make?
Not sure why, but I tend to make bracelet more than any thing else.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know?
I am still trying to master starting a Full Persian, and would like to be able to
construct sheets of other weaves beside European.

6) Which piece are you most proud of?
One of the first pieces of byzantine I made for my mother.Although I do not
have a picture of this bracelet, she has probably showed it half of her home state.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille?
Play. Learn. Play some more. Have fun and let your hands and mind create.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions, and welcome to the guild!

Sept. - Oct Challenge - JAPANESE

2011-11-03T08:27:00.002-05:00

The challenge topic for this two-month challenge was Japenese-style Maille. The pieces that were made are simply amazing, and you MUST check them out.

From BarbsDesigns:

From BathorysChainmaille:

From NightmaidenDesigns:

Thank you all for such wonderful designs!

Guild Updates

2011-08-29T19:25:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone, this is Sara from Viking Jones Jewelry. I'm going to try to make the guildmaster change as seamless as possible, though I'm sure there will be bumps. When Haffina sent the email that she would be stepping down, and later explained that without a guildmaster this group would no longer exist, I stepped up to the plate. I can honestly say that of the three guilds I am a member of, I am most active in this one by far. Keeping it running is very important to me. It just might take a little while to get everything ironed out.

Haffina will be taking the zetaboards forum down, so I have created a new forum HERE. Please register and carry on as though it's the original forum. I have kept the set-up much the same as the old forum, though there is now an option for a different skin. If you explore it for a few minutes, you will see that it really isn't all that much different from the zetaboards forum. When you are playing around with the forum, please make sure you are opted in for the mass emails. I won't spam you or anything, but it may be the only way you will get updates if you aren't on Facebook or Twitter until I can get the ins and outs of the Artfire Guild system figured out.

I will also be taking over the Twitter account for the guild, and co-running the Facebook page with Haffina. Though, if anyone would like to help with either of these you are most welcome to it. Just let me know.

Thank you, Haffina, for everything you have done for the guild in your time as guildmaster. I wish you the best of luck with everything in life. :)

Viking

July/ August Challenge - Elements and Romance

2011-08-28T22:32:00.000-05:00

Welcome back! Today we present to you the results of our latest ArtFire Chainmaille Guild Challenge. This challenge was run over two months, and had two themes. Our themes were 'Elements' and 'Romance'. We have some beautiful creations to share with you, so here we go.

Fantastic creations by our members yet again!

And with this posting comes the end of my time as the Guildmaster of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. I have enjoyed my time, and have loved meeting such an amazing group of artisans. I will be remaining a member of the guild. VikingJonesJewelry is taking over the role of Guildmaster and I wish her the very best success in the role.

Thank you for all the support over the last couple of years.

Cheers

Haffina :)

These Chains

2011-08-22T04:42:00.000-05:00

Curated by VikingJonesJewelry

These Chains

Chainmaille for your Ears

Introducing Doktor Nix

2011-08-20T23:20:00.000-05:00

This week we meet another new member of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. We are going to meet Nick, the creative force behind Doktor Nix. We asked Nick our regular questions, so let's see how he answered.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I have been making chainmaille for about a year and a half now.

Why do you like Chainmaille? I love the feel of the chain and the mesh, as well as the strength of a finished work. It's both functional and beautiful. It has also provided me with a point of focus that has helped me with my severe adult ADD. Working with chain calms and quiets my mind.

What is your favourite type of ring? I personally enjoy working with small diameter copper rings. I love the feel and weight of copper as well as the beautiful way it tarnishes. For sellable items, however, I prefer to work in steel for its durability and resistance to the elements.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? I like making anything that's new. Anything I haven't made before. Every new challenge is a thrill and an adventure. I'm always looking to find what else can be done with the medium.

Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? I really want to learn Japanese weaves and to learn Turkish round. Both are absolutely beautiful and I have not had the opportunity to work in them yet. Turkish, specifically, has given me a lot of trouble so far.

Which piece are you most proud of? I would say that I'm most proud of the flogger/cat-o-nine tails that I made of chainmaille. It was a challenge offered to me and I enjoyed rising to meet it. The piece always attracts the most attention.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Chainmaille takes a great deal of patience, focus, and endurance. If you can make it past the repetitive tedious nature of the work, it can be deeply rewarding. There is simply no way to get through a piece without putting some of yourself into it, and that shows in the end. If you rush the work or try to work around the time and effort it should take, that will show as well.

Thank you Nick, and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. You can see more great creations at Doktor Nix on ArtFire.

Chainmaille for your Ears

2011-08-18T03:29:00.001-05:00

Chain Maille Summer Rainbow

Introducing kiwimaille

2011-08-12T21:08:00.000-05:00

This week we introduce you to another of our newer guild members. This week we meet kiwimaille. We asked them our regular questions, so let's see what they have to say.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? Roughly about 12 years, off and on. I started by helping a friend of mine, coiling and cutting rings, then I wanted to start learning how to actually make maille. The rest is history. :-)

Why do you like Chainmaille? It is an amazing stress reliever, and I love making things that others can enjoy.

What is your favourite type of ring? Currently, I've been using a lot of aluminum 3/8th and steel 5/16th.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? Things that are unique and useful. I love finding a piece that is a challange to figure out. Mostly jewelry and inlays.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? Jens Pind, this is such an interesting looking weave.

Which piece are you most proud of? To date, the piece I am the most proud of would be the Chainmaille inlay I made and donated to our new office building, its 8777 rings of Epic. Only not purple... :

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Start small. Not micro maille small, just a small project, something that you will use and be proud that you made. Because you totally should be proud that you -created- something. It's an amazing feeling. And find a pair of pliers and cutters that you will not kill your hands using.

Thanks kiwimaille and welcome to the guild. You can see more of their fabulous creations at kiwimaille on Artfire.

Introducing Tangled Metal

2011-08-05T23:45:00.000-05:00

We are here again to introduce another of our newer members. This week we are meeting Eric from Tangled Metal. We asked Eric our regular questions, so let's get to know him.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I started making chainmail in 1986 after reading the complete Lord of the Rings series. I wanted to have a suit of armor like the warriors in the books. So, I guess I have been making chainmail for a little over 25 years.

Why do you like Chainmaille? I like the how you can take metal and weave it so that it becomes almost like cloth. I have done some very tiny chainmail (2mm outer diameter in a 30 gauge wire) and it had the feel of very fine silk.

What is your favourite type of ring? I enjoy working with stainless steel rings. I like the strength of the metal and the shine you can get from it. Of course I also like titanium rings for the strength and light weight.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? I prefer to make jewelry, but I am never opposed to make armor, clothing, home decor and accessories. I just enjoy working with chainmail not matter what I am making. It is really fun to watch a piece take shape.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? After 25 years of weaving chainmail, I am not aware of any weave that I do not know. I do however have a lot of fun finding new ways to make 3D items in chainmail.

Which piece are you most proud of? I have chainmail on every continent except Antarctica, I have had pieces in movies, television shows, on Broadway and on thousands of people over the years and yet I am most proud of the small scrap of the very first piece of chainmail I ever made. It is a learning scrap from a shirt made from metal coat hangers.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Be prepared to learn a lot about patience. Spend the extra money on professional grade tools. Take the time to do it right the first time. And lastly, if you end up making chainmail as a job, never underpay yourself. You may only be a minimum wage crafter at the start but as you get better you should pay yourself a fair wage.

Thank you Eric, and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. You can see lots more of Eric's creations at Tangled Metal on ArtFire.

Introducing Enchained Treasures

2011-07-24T22:12:00.000-05:00

After a small hiatus, we are back with another introduction to one of our newer members. On this occasion we are meeting Susan, the creative goddess behind Enchained Treasures. We asked her our regular questions, so let's go and see how she answered.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I started during the tail end of college in 2004 so 6 years.

Why do you like Chainmaille? I've always done art. went to school for it. And I always gravitated
towards 3d. Sculpture and 3d design were always my favorite classes. I see jewelry and chainmail specifically an extension of this.

What is your favourite type of ring? Hmm, I tend to use anodized aluminum in 5/16 a lot.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? Something that challenges me either in design or size. I've been doing a lot of inlays lately. Also, full on outfits can be fun if the creativity is left to me.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? helms chain, it looks easy but i've never done it. I tend to perfect the weaves I know and leave the experiments to Beth our "mistress of weaves".

Which piece are you most proud of? My maille banner. It's 3 feet long.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Start with an easy to work with metal. I started in steel and then did blackened steel and it KILLED my hands. And my friend who was also learning never got past the rings flinging around the room to make a piece. Try bright aluminum first, your hands will thank you.

Thank you Susan and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. Be sure to check out Enchained Treasures on ArtFire to see more of her fabulous work.

June Challenge - Persian Weaves

2011-07-02T07:15:00.000-05:00

For the month of June the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild members were set the challenge of creating pieces with Persian weaves. We have some great entries, so let's go look.

Wonderful creations as always! Thank you to those that participated.

Please don't forget to vote for our next theme on the left of the blog.

Chain Maille Summer Rainbow

2011-06-18T18:51:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by The Lucky Dogs

Fine Art Photography

Introducing JTRJewelryStudioLLC

2011-06-16T06:19:00.000-05:00

Here we are again introducing another of our ArtFire Chainmaille Guild members. This week it is our pleasure to introduce Janice of JTRJewelryStudioLLC. Let's see how she answered our regular questions.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I am a novice chainmailler. I did not begin until I had a Flex Shaft and was able to ensure the quality of my rings. I have been making chainmaille jewelry for approximately 4 months and still have a lot to learn.

Why do you like Chainmaille? I rapidly became hooked on the art of chainmaille. I love its intricacies and the challenge it presents and feel a great sense of accomplishment when I have mastered a new weave.

What is your favourite type of ring? So far, my favorite type of ring is the box ring. I like its deceptive simplicity and its rather "streamlined" look. My second favorite ring is Japanese lace, primarily because it so much fun to weave.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? I have made bracelets, earrings, and necklaces utilizing chainmaille. Overall, I prefer to make bracelets probably because I don't usually wear necklaces.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? There are many, many weaves that I don't yet know. Therefore, I can't pick just one that I would most like to learn. I would like to learn as many as possible.

Which piece are you most proud of? I think the piece I am most proud of is my first Japanese Lace bracelet. I was so pleased to be able to master the weave and immediately sold two of them when I posted a picture of my first bracelet on my Facebook page.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? The advice I would give to anyone considering chainmaille is... Don't let it intimidate you! Also, if you are able, purchase a Flex Shaft so that you can control the size and quality of your rings. In addition, purchase as many books as you can on the art of chainmaille, as each has something different to offer.

Thanks Janice! Welcome to the guild. Be sure to check out JTRJewelryStudioLLC for more of her fantastic work.

Pendants and Chains

2011-06-14T23:51:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by 28SidesDesigns

Pendants and Chains

Curated By: 28SidesDesigns

The Ancient Art of Chainmaille

Handmade Soap

The Ancient Art of Chainmaille

2011-06-02T19:45:00.000-05:00

Curated by Circles of Stone

Curated By: CirclesofStone

Craft Supplies

Maille is Red!

2011-05-31T02:38:00.002-05:00

Maille is Red!

Introducing Isis Arts

2011-05-30T05:44:00.000-05:00

It is time to introduce another of our newer members. This week's featured ArtFire Chainmaille Guild member is Linda Faigen aka Isis Arts. We asked Linda our regular questions, so let's see how she answered them.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? 2 years approximately

Why do you like Chainmaille? Because of its design possibilities and also because it's relaxing for me to work on. Sort of like knitting is for some people.

What is your favourite type of ring? I'm not sure what you mean by "type" of ring. If you mean which metal I prefer, that would be sterling silver

What kind of items do you prefer to make? Necklaces and bracelets

Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? Jens Pind

Which piece are you most proud of? The piece shown here, which combines Helm, Spiral and Wire Wrapping.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Go for it!

Thanks Linda and welcome to the Guild. You can see more of Linda's amazing work at Isis Arts on ArtFire.

May Challenge - Summertime

2011-05-29T01:17:00.000-05:00

Another month draws to a close and with it comes another ArtFire Chainmaille Guild monthly challenge wrap up.The theme for May was 'Summertime' and we have some lovely results. So let's go check them out!

Nightmaiden Designs

HaffinaCreations

Lovely creations once again. Please help us choose our next theme by voting for your favourite idea over on the left of the blog.

Introducing Shealynn's Faerie Shoppe!

2011-05-20T01:34:00.000-05:00

It is time to introduce another of our ArtFire Chainmaille Guild members. This week it is the youngest member we have, the lovely Shaylynn from Shealynn's Faerie Shoppe. We asked her our regular questions, so let's see what she had to say.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I first heard about chainmaille at a local summer fest this summer. So... about 7 months, although I took my sweet time learning! I'm still limited by the fact that I can't buy every tool or ring that I want, so I'm forced to make do with what I've got (which leads to some unique little designs).

Chainmaille isn't the only style of jewelry design that I do, and I am not very advanced in chainmaille, so it is strange that I do think of myself as a "chainmailler." I started learning chainmaille just a couple of months after I first tried making my own jewelry, and I have to say that learning chainmaille is one of the best things I've learned as far as jewelry techniques go. The way you have to think about the way the wire and rings interact is a great mindset for other jewelry techniques, too.

Why do you like Chainmaille? It's such a unique and versatile art form... why *wouldn't* I like it? I'm not a patient person, but (strangely) I am obsessed with details and making things beautiful. Chainmaille is right up that alley! Plus, the historical ties add a thousand awesome points. I also like how chainmaille can be classy, bold, spunky, feminine, or very masculine... Like I said, it is versatile!

What is your favourite type of ring? Colorful ones! Seriously... I love color. Color adds an extra, magical dimension.
On an even more serious note, I'll have to say enameled copper. It is very easy to work with and has a quality feel.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? I prefer making intricate pendants and fun bracelets, but I seem to be making more earrings than anything else right now. In any case, I like making jewelry.

Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? ALL OF THEM! I think that the Persian and variants are next on my list-to-learn, though.

Which piece are you most proud of? Oh, dear. What an unanswerable question. I love almost every chainmaille creation I've made.... Since you are making me pick, I'll pick the Celtic Flower necklace. It was my first big chainmaille project, and I couldn't make heads or tails of the tutorial. But it all worked out in the end, and I wear this necklace almost every day.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? To have fun and jump in the deep end!

Thank you for answering our questions Shaylynn and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. You can see more of her wonderful creations at Shealynn's Faerie Shoppe on ArtFire.

Beautiful Byzantine

2011-05-10T17:59:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by VikingJonesJewelry

Beautiful Byzantine

Introducing Circles of Stone!

2011-05-02T01:45:00.000-05:00

Here we are again introducing another member of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This week we are meeting Circles of Stone. We asked her our regular questions, let's see how she answered.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? I think I've been doing chainmaille for about 12 years off and on. I say off and on because I like to try different techniques. I'm currently learning to stamp and rivet metals. Now I need to combine that with my chainmaille!

Why do you like Chainmaille? It amazes me the beautiful pieces that can be created from simple round rings. I also like the history behind the art of chainmaille.

What is your favourite type of ring? I started out working with sterling 16 gauge/4.5mm, but because of the economy I'm also working with aluminum and rubber rings. I'm having fun adding color to my designs this way.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? In chainmaille I mostly make bracelets and earrings. I really enjoy the byzantine link.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? I just can't seem to get the hang of full Persian or even half Persian. I need to make sure I'm in a very patient mood before trying this again!

Which piece are you most proud of? My current favorite is the sterling silver bracelet I did in the European 4 in 1 weave.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? There are a lot of good books and online tutorials to help you learn the weaves. Enjoy your creative journey and be patient with yourself.

You can see more of her lovely work, not just Chainmaille, in her studio, Circles of Stone, on ArtFire.

Evening Elegance and Male Maille Monthly Challenge

2011-04-29T08:12:00.000-05:00

It is time to see the results of another monthly challenge for the members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This month we ended up with two themes when the vote was a tie. The themes we had were 'Evening Elegance' and 'Male Maille'.
So let's take a look at what was created!

Artfire Guild Chain Maille Collection, a...

Haffina Creations

Wonderful creations from everyone who participated.

Please take the time to vote in our poll for our next theme over on the left of the blog, and leave a comment to let our members know what you think of their work.

Introducing Saniki Creations

2011-04-23T01:14:00.003-05:00

It is time to introduce you to another of our wonderful ArtFire Chainmaille Guild members. This week we are meeting Penny from SanikiCreations. We asked her to answer our usual questions, so let's see how she answered.

How long have you been a Chainmailler?
I started chainmailling about a year ago. I have seen Chainmaille jewelry through other people's work and thought "this is just too cool". I took a class at my local bead shop, and have been addicted to chainmailling since. I now teach chainmailling at the same bead shop I first took the class at.

Why do you like Chainmaille?
I love the idea that a bunch of little metal rings put together can make something so pretty. I'm a SAHM with three girls and find this is great for me to "zone out" while I weave a chain during my own time when they are at school or in bed.

What is your favourite type of ring?
I love the look of copper and find it easy to handle. I don't have a specific ring size or gauge that I prefer. I like to play with all of them. I have used Aluminum, Jeweller's Brass, Bronze, and Stainless Steel. Stainless Steel is a bit more tricky as the thicker gauges does a number on my hands (ouch). However this past Christmas my husband bought me some industrial pliers to use on the Stainless Steel so I don't have to put too much wear and tear on my other pliers.

What kind of items do you prefer to make?
I prefer to make bracelets and earrings as they are quick to make as necklaces tend to take me a little longer to do. I love to make necklace chains (micromailling) where you can put your own pendant on, but those little rings sure make me go cross-eyed. I've also started making rings for fingers now and find they are the best rings to wear when you use your hands alot as it "moves" with you.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know?
Jens Pind... for the life of me I can't seem to get it right. Tried every tutorial out there and I still make a mess out of it. What I would also love to try (though it'll probably take me a few months if not years) is the 3D sculptures I've seen of animals, insects... even a chess set that is just amazing.

Which piece are you most proud of?
It would be the Split Persian bracelet I named "Soraya"... it was my first attempt at a Persian weave and it came out just lovely.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille?
Don't give up!!! Start on something simple first and work your way up. Sometimes the most simplest weaves are just as remarkable as the more advanced ones. Patience is always a good idea, especially if you are only doing it a couple of hours a day for a bigger project. I had made a 32" boxchain necklace for my Nana using 1/8" ID rings and working on it for only an hour or two about three times a week, if that, took me just over a month to do.

Thanks so much Penny, and welcome to the guild. You can see more of Penny's great pieces at Saniki Creations on ArtFire.

Let There Be Weaves

2011-04-17T23:29:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by The Lucky Dogs

Spring - Its in the maille

Introducing OmiSilver

2011-04-16T21:05:00.001-05:00

It is time to introduce another ArtFire Chainmaille Guild member. This week it is Mary, the driving force behind Omi Silver. Let's see how she answered our questions.

How long have you been a Chainmailler? About 4 years

Why do you like Chainmaille? I like the challenge of the weave and the many different looks you get with the results.

What is your favourite type of ring? I use mostly Argentium sterling silver. I also like the look of copper.

What kind of items do you prefer to make? Bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pendants, rings - Any type of jewelry.

Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? Viperscale

Which piece are you most proud of? A full persian square wire argentium bracelet.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Learn the proper way to open and close rings and jump right in. It's addictive.

Thanks for answering our questions and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. Drop by OmiSilver on ArtFire for more of her wonderful work.

Spring - Its in the Maille

2011-04-15T21:01:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by VikingJonesJewelry

Just another day at the office: Chainmai...

Vintage Fashion

Just another day at the office : Chainmaille Style

2011-04-07T03:27:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by littlemetalmerchant

Curated By: littlemetalme...

An Evening at the Ball

2011-04-06T23:35:00.000-05:00

Collection curated by Lunargent

An evening at the ball

Curated By: Lunargent

Handmade Soap

March Challenge - Beaded Maille

2011-03-30T05:34:00.000-05:00

It is time for another Monthly Challenge blog post. This month the theme was 'Beaded Maille'. We have had lots of entries this month, which is really wonderful!
So let's see what the members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild have come up with this month.

Liv'n Good Jewelry

Aislinn's Erotic Jewels

O'Refined

Omi Silver

Shaelynn's Faerie Shoppe

Amazing work from everyone!
We would really love it if you could share this with all your friends, as well as voting in the poll to the left to help us choose our next theme.

The Old Ball and Chain

2011-03-26T19:39:00.000-05:00

Collection by ORefined.

The Old Ball and Chain

Curated By: ORefined

Fine Art Photography

Copper in Chains

2011-03-24T04:10:00.000-05:00

Collection by M2bC

Copper in Chains

Curated By: M2bC

Different Weaves for Different Tastes

Jewelry Supplies

Introducing M2bC!

2011-03-22T05:04:00.000-05:00

We are here with another of the newer members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This week we are meeting Maureen from M2bC (Meant 2 be Cherished). Let's hand over to Maureen and see how she answers our questions.

How long have you been a chainmailler? About 2 years, though I had to put the pliers down for a few months due to a hand injury.

Why do you like chainmaille? What's not to like?? There is a huge variety of weaves and styles, you can incorporate color and watching a few rings develop into a lovely piece of jewelry is just fun.

What is your favorite type of ring? I'm a huge fan of anodized aluminum! It's lightweight, colorful, and easy to work with. I love 18g rings.

What items do you prefer to make? I love making bracelets using the Euro 4n1 weave. It's my favorite way to bring in color.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? Oh, so many! I really only know a few weaves, byzantine, Euro 4n1, shaggy loops, you know the beginner weaves. I'd love to learn parallel and spiral and jens pind and - well, as I said, so many!

Which piece are you most proud of? Probably my chakra bracelet. I love the way the colors flow into each other.

What advice would you give to someone who was considering Chainmaille? Get good, comfortable pliers that won't strain your hands. My 12 year old niece loves to make simple 2n1 bracelets or anklets for her friends using metal and rubber rings. It's her birthday and I'm giving her a selection of enameled copper and rubber rings with a couple of pairs of pliers. Here is what I tell her: be patient and have fun!

Thank you Maureen and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. You can see more of Maureen's work at M2bC on ArtFire

Different Weaves for Different Tastes

2011-03-15T18:18:00.000-05:00

Great collection by 28SidesDesigns

Curated By: 28SidesDesigns

In spirit of St. Patricks Day---Chainmai...

In the Spirit of St Patrick's Day - Chainmaille Style

2011-03-14T16:21:00.000-05:00

Lovely Collection created by littlemetalmerchant

Curated By: littlemetalme...

Introducing BooBooArt!

2011-03-10T23:59:00.000-06:00

Today we are introducing another of the newer members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This week it is Ann from BooBooArt. Let's see how she answers are regular questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? I started chainmailling about 8 months ago but am feeling encouraged that I'm heading in the right direction since I have been accepted to two art galleries: Galleria Evangelia in Columbus, Ohio and The Guild on the Triangle in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? I like the clean lines and the 3 dimensional aspect of it. I also like to work in aluminum because I can create a piece that looks really heavy but is actually feather light, affordable, and nickel free.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? I love the aluminum chainmaille rings because they look like slightly oxidized sterling silver and are light to wear.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? I prefer to make flat-weave bracelets. I was never much of a necklace wearer and I just find bracelets to be so much fun.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? Jens Pind (it looks impossible!)

6) Which piece are you most proud of? A custom 3.5 inch wide cuff for a local model. It sounded insane when she ordered it but it turned out gorgeous.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Quality instructions are a MUST or else you'll have hours of frustration and nothing to show for it. I learned that the hard way! Also, relax that grip!

Thanks so much Ann, and welcome to the Artfire Chainmaille Guild. Be sure to check out BooBooArt on ArtFire for more great pieces.

Mixed Maille

2011-03-08T15:20:00.000-06:00

Mixed Maille collection curated by VikingJonesJewelry

Mixed Maille

Unique Gifts

Chained Together

2011-03-07T18:27:00.000-06:00

Wonderful collection of ArtFire Chainmaille Members by 28SidesDesign

Chained Together

Curated By: 28SidesDesigns

Valentine Flower Byzantine Bracelet

Unique Gifts

February Challenge - Byzantine

2011-02-27T02:57:00.000-06:00

For the month of February the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild members where challenged to create something using Byzantine weave, or a variation on Byzantine weave.
We have had some wonderful entries, so let's take a look. And when you've had a look, please vote for our next theme over on the left of the blog.

Bathory's Chainmaille

Gear Steampunk Earrings

Bathory's Chainmaille

Faerie Celtic Byzantine Cross

Serenity Grove

Black and Green Anodized Aluminum Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelet

Faerie Glass Byzantine BDSM Slave Collar Choker

Aislinn's Erotic Jewels

Argentium Sterling Silver Byzantine Bracelet with Hematite

Omi Silver

Tryzantine Chainmaille Bracelet in Black and Red Anodized Aluminum

Byzantine Chainmaille Earrings with Rice Pearls

Haffina Creations

Fabulous variations of a wonderful weave! Well done to all those who participated.

Don't forget to vote for our next theme and stay tuned for more from the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild.

Introducing Serenity Grove

2011-02-04T22:28:00.000-06:00

We are here again with the introduction of one of our newer members. This week it is Serenity Grove, who is not only new to guild, but new to the world of Chainmaille. Let's see how she answers our questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? I’ve been working on chainmaille for around 5 months now.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? I love the look and versatility of chainmaille.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? My favorite ring is the 18gauge 5/32”.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? My most popular item is currently a helm weave choker.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? I want to learn the JPL weave next for a new project.

6) Which piece are you most proud of? I’m currently most proud of my byzantine celtic inspired cross.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? To just start, if I can do it I know anyone can. I actually don’t have a lot of patience so I don’t really think it’s a requirement for the craft. I love to see results and that’s what I see as I work with any item.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Don't forget to drop by Serenity Grove on ArtFire to see more of her wonderful creations.

January Challenge - Opposites

2011-01-29T04:52:00.001-06:00

For the month of January, the ArtFire Chainmaille guild was set the challenge of creating pieces of chainmaille with the theme of Opposites.
Here are the wonderful creations that guild members came up with.

European Chainmaille Bracelet in Black Stainless Steel and White EPDM

Silver and Black Parallel Weave BDSM Slave Collar Choker Necklace

Aislinn's Erotic Jewels

Blue/Orange Ring

Bathory's Chainmaille

Chain Maille Bracelet, bubble pattern

The Lucky Dogs

Little Metal Merchant

Great work by all our involved members. Remember to join us next month for the results of our next challenge.

Valentine's Day - Chainmaille Style by Little Metal Merchant

2011-01-25T17:48:00.001-06:00

Valentines Day---Chainmaille Style

Curated By: littlemetalme...

The Artfire Chainmaille Guild - Part 1

Two great collections thanks to The Lucky Dogs!

2011-01-21T22:29:00.000-06:00

Artfire Chainmaille Guild collection - P...

Introducing Kaeti's Originals!

2011-01-13T05:44:00.000-06:00

Here we are back again with another introduction to one of our newer members. This week we are meeting the talented Kaeti of Kaeti's Originials. Let's see how she answers are regular questions.

How long have you been a Chainmailler?
I hate to admit, it’s been a while. I started learning how to do the Byzantine when I was getting my BFA back in the late 80’s.I was into different chain patterns and designs that I found in my antique jewelry books. Mostly then, I was working on soldered link patterns.I would look at patterns and try to copy them.There weren’t many books on the subject of chains or chainmaille back then, (late 80’s) and the internet was just a SyFi dream, so it was a slow process. It was research of love and a process of trial and error.I am somewhat dyslectic, which doesn’t help and made it very frustrating. Although, I have created links accidently.That synchronicity of finding a new (to me), weave is kind of a pay-back for having done some things backwards. It’s happened more than a few times!
I didn’t go back to chainmaille until about 6 years ago having been a bench jeweler for a retail store, and going back to college.I have since gotten enough patterns in my bag of tricks to start teaching to those interested. Being dyslectic has helped me teach both left and right handed wannabe weavers since I can do either.Now, there’s tons of stuff out there to help me learn new patterns.

Why do you like chainmaille?
The very idea of “chains” is interesting to me as a metaphor to life.You know, “chain of events”, “chain of life”, “chains that bind”, etc. We are all links in that chain. How each individual makes a whole, that kind of thing.
Also, the feel of the piece when it is finished.It must be a primal thing because so many people say “It’s the feel” or they just “oooo” and “awww” when I teach a class in Euro 4 in 1 and they get enough finished so they can drape it over their hand and admire it.It’s fun to watch because they let it slink over their hands over and over, and then go on to get it longer.I’m no different.

What is your favorite type of ring?
I really like to use 18ga copper, brass, bronze, nickel or silver rings because they are easier to make, cut and weave.I have tried stainless, but, yikes, it’s hard on my hands! I have used larger rings in the non-ferrous metals and have liked the results but not too many applications for 14 or 12ga rings.The pieces get pretty heavy. If I need to make smaller chains, the smaller gauges come into play, but it seems like it takes forever to make anything with those smaller links.

What kinds of items do you prefer to make?
I guess I would have to say bracelets because that seems to be what I have the most of!I would have to include neck chains as well. I have a full-time job as a Counselor at a community college which is probably why I make bracelets: less time invested. I also cut my own cabochons for my clasps and pendants which takes time away from weaving.I am somewhat of a purist in that I prefer to have a piece totally handmade rather than relying on purchased stones.Sometimes, I just have to go with a purchased stone if it fills the design better. Or I do use manufactured clasps because folks are more used to them and trust them.

Which weave would you like to learn that you don’t currently know?
Hmmm. Elf weave, and those Persian weaves made into sheets look cool.I’ve been thinking about making a vest or purse but haven’t decided what weave or size ring, yet. It would also be fun to do little animals and sculpture, but I’m not sure what weave to use. I’ve seen them and just think they are way cool.

Which piece are you most proud of?
That changes every time I try something new and I get it, but for now, I would have to say my graduated collars in Euro 4 in 1 and 6 in 1 using three different metals. Just figuring out which ring sizes, AR and all was a total challenge.I’m not quite finished with either of the 4 in 1 or the 6 in 1, yet. Still need to finish with a clasp I am designing.But I have a Argentinium silver collar in Euro 4 in 1 that I added “pleats” to so it drapes around the neck better.I also have a copper one in the same design.
I also am proud of a couple of bracelets that I made in the loop-in-loop weave in four rows.I just finally put them up for sale as I wasn’t sure I was going to sell them I liked them so much personally.One is posted here and Etsy.

What advise would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille?
Just don’t give up!!! There’s not much more frustrating that trying to learn a new weave, especially, the start of the weave. But when you finally get a pattern down – Wow! It really feels great! Start easy and as you get better, stretch yourself.Learning new patterns might just be a good way to prevent Alzheimer’s!

Introducing Two Coin Jewelry

2011-01-01T05:05:00.000-06:00

2011 has begun and with it we introduce another of our members. In this blog post we introduce Two Coin Jewelry, run by the talented Anthony. Let's see how he answered our regular questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? I have been a chainmailler for about 6 months now.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? I was always interested in chainmaille since my D&D days, and became more so when I started attending Renaissance Faires and seeing the different chainmaille works.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? I’ve really gotten to like Beadalon’s Artistic Wire as it seems to hold up best to me (I am still working on softening my grip) but I am getting to like anodized aluminum now as well. I use mostly 18g and 20g wire for my work.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? I prefer to make jewelry as that is my trade. I am very slowly working on wrapping and cutting stainless steel rings for either a maille shirt or helm (a coif I believe is what it’s called). I am going to need much more wire for this, but I have time.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you don’t currently know? I currently want to learn the different Persian weaves as well as the different Japanese weaves.

6) Which piece are you most proud of? I think right now it is my tri-colored byzantine bracelets that I make.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Start out easy and take breaks. When I first started, I practiced different weaves for about two hours or so straight without stopping each day for a week. When the weekend came, my wrist hurt to the point where I couldn’t pick up my son (which isn’t good for a stay-at-home dad). I found out I had tendonitis in my wrist from all the repetitive motion of opening and closing rings. It took four weeks for the pain to go away and I couldn’t weave at all during that time period. Now I take breaks and stretch often and I have had no more issues.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions, and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. Drop by Two Coin Jewelry on Artfire to see more of Anthony's creations.

Merry Christmas from the Artfire Chainmaille Guild

2010-12-24T01:30:00.000-06:00

On behalf of the members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild I would like to wish everyone a very joyful and happy Christmas and Holiday season! We look forward to bringing you more fabulous Chainmaille creations in 2011.

Happy Holidays
HaffinaCreations - Guildmaster

Introducing Viking Jones Jewelry

2010-12-16T04:33:00.001-06:00

We are back again with another new member of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This week we are featuring Sara from Viking Jones Jewelry. Let's see how Sara tackled our questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler?

Believe it or not, I have only been making chainmaille for about 2 months. I was hooked from the first ring.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille?

I have a 2 year old heathen child and am a stay at home mom. When she goes to sleep for her nap and for the night is the only time I really have to myself, and then I have to do housework. Chainmaille is seriously my escape from life. For a couple hours each day I can sit there and concentrate on just one thing and I don't have to worry about the piece I'm working on running off and climbing into the dishwasher when I'm cleaning the kitchen. :)

3) What is your favourite type of ring?

So far, 20g 3/16" and 1/8" seem to be a major part of almost every piece I've made. One of those sizes seem to be needed for everything. But I prefer working with the smaller gauges. The heaviest gauge I've worked with is 16g AA and I got those rings to give my daughter something to play with so I could finish a piece.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make?

I love necklace chains, though I haven't had the time or chance to make many yet. I'm not fond of earrings, but I'm sure chainmaille will start making an appearance when I make them. I like making jewelry because there are so many people out there that think of chainmaille as the E x-1 hauberks and coifs only and they don't really think of it in a jewelry setting, especially in my area.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know?

Viperscale. I've tried it, but as soon as I get a small patch done and set it down, I lose the pattern and it's just a jumble of rings when I come back to it. I've done tiny JPL, which is supposed to be hard, but I can't get viperscale with huge rings. Eventually I may get it, but I'm not holding my breath. LOL

6) Which piece are you most proud of?

At the moment, my favorite piece is a dragonscale bracelet made with 20g 3/16" and 1/8" (see, those sizes are EVERYWHERE!) copper. It's not quite finished yet since I'm waiting for the clasp to come in the mail, but I love it. I love the weave in general, but this piece in particular because I actually finished it. It's the first bracelet I've made that I cared where the clasp landed on the wrist and hunted for a week for a four-ring copper tube clasp so that it would sit at the bottom of the wrist and showcase just the weave.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille?

Find a good supplier of rings - one that has consistent quality in cuts and color (if you use anodized rings). If your supplier constantly sends you rings that aren't round or are broken, find another supplier or learn to make your own rings. Get pliers that are made for the material you want to work with. Don't get pansy pliers if you want to work with steel because they'll break. Then, find some great tutorials. There are awesome free ones online, and they come attached to the people who wrote them so you can ask questions to your hearts content, and these people will love to help you. Oh, and learn aspect ratio. AR is one of those necessary evils, but with it you can go far. :)

Thanks Sara, welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. Don't forget to check out Sara's creations at Viking Jones Jewelry.

Have a Maille Christmas!

2010-12-10T16:40:00.002-06:00

Have a Maille Christmas!

Copper Chainmaille Earrings with Pearls

Introducing Unseelie Designs

2010-12-08T22:09:00.000-06:00

This week we are introducing another of our newer members, Unseelie Designs. Let's see how she tackles are regular questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? I've been making maille since 2005.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? It's interesting the patterns that can be made out of just little loops of metal. It seems so simple, but it really isn't and there is so much that can be done. It's like it just keeps pulling me back in with some new weave, some new idea or experiment with what I can pull off with those rings. Also, it's comforting to make jewelry or other items that look great and have some strength to them.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? Stainless Steel 4mm ID

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? Bracelets mostly. Probably because I love wearing them and I really don't need to worry about them too much.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? GSG and Stepping stones

6) Which piece are you most proud of? My Balance the Heart bracelet. Yes, it's a simple Byzantine, but getting the beads in there without the entire piece spiraling was a challenge.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Just because it isn't easy right away doesn't mean you should give up on it. Sometimes it just takes a while to understand the pattern. It can be easy to get discouraged, but just keep on trying. Eventually you'll get it!

Thank you for answering our questions, and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. Don't forget to check out Unseelie Designs' Artfire Studio!

1920's Inspired Challenge

2010-12-01T05:31:00.000-06:00

For the months of October and November, the members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild were given the challenge to create a piece or pieces of chainmaille that were inspired by the 1920's. We received some amazing submissions. Join with us as we pay homage to the 1920's.

The Lucky Dogs

Art Deco Crystal Chain Maille Circlet

Venus in Chains

Swarovski Crystal Chain Maille Flower Headdress

Venus in Chains

Flappers Delight - chainmaille weave necklace

1920's Inspired Full Persian with Unakite Necklace

Nightmaiden Designs

Gun Moll - matte onyx with seedbeads on Stainless and Aluminum

Triple Spiral Weave Copper Chainmaille Necklace 1920's Inspired

HaffinaCreations

Fabulous work by all.

This is the last challenge for 2010, but be sure to join us in 2011 when we return with more challenges.

Introducing Treasures by Merry

2010-11-16T04:27:00.000-06:00

It is time once again to introduce you to one of the newer members of the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild. This week it is Merry from Treasures by Merry.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? My adventure in chainmaille actually started a few years ago. We had been to a local Renaissance Fair where my husband fell in love with a chainmaille shirt. It was wwwaaaaayyyyy more money than we could spend so I said "I can make that" (famous last words and all). I bought a chainmaille book at the book store, hubby made a wooden thing to hold spools of wire and brought me some wire from his shop. He also bought some wire cutters and made a couple of metal dowels. The problem was that the wire was a very large gauge and I had a hard time wrapping and cutting it. Disillusionment set in and I quite messing with it totally. About 6 months ago I started making wire wrapped jewelry and in finding information on that topic I was re-introduced to chainmaille! Only now I had more knowledge on gauge, wire hardness and the various tools. So I found a makeshift dowel (I think it was a large allen wrench), made up some rings and soon had some earrings!! I still have a LOT to learn about chainmaille and consider myself to be on the early side of being a newbie but I am hooked!!

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? Chainmaille appeals to me for many reasons. I think it is an absolutely beautiful and versatile art form. It is amazing to me that you can use this knowledge and these materials to make armor that protects you and beautiful jewelry that adorns you. The possibilities and the weaves seem to be endless! The more I learn the more I realize there is to learn. I love taking a bunch of loose rings and within a little while I convert them into something beautiful!

3) What is your favourite type of ring? I have used aluminum, copper and enameled copper to make rings. I think the enameled copper is my favorite right now (of course that may change tomorrow!). I am making my own rings so I love the colors I can get the enameled copper in and I find it easy to work with.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? I currently am enjoying making jewelry. I have made some bracelets but mostly earrings for now. Hubby has asked for a chainmaille shirt so I'll try my hand at that some time in the future.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? Weaves, weaves, weaves and more weaves!! They all look so amazing and I just want to try them all! I'm looking forward to making a Dragonscale weave bracelet for my sister next.

6) Which piece are you most proud of? Why don't you just ask me to pick my favorite child!! Just joking. I do love all the pieces I've made but I think the copper earrings (listed on my Artfire page simply as chainmaille earrings in copper) are what I'm most proud of because they were my first!

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? I would say learn all you can but never think you've learned it all! Get some decent tools and dive in head first!! And above all....have fun with it.

Thank you for sharing with us Merry and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild

Masculine Maille

2010-11-13T00:16:00.000-06:00

Masculine Maille

Introducing Westminter Studios

2010-11-07T02:56:00.000-06:00

It is time to introduce another of our newer Chainmaille Guild members. This week we are meeting Westminster Studios. Let's see how she tackled our questions.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? Not long, I fell in love with it this summer and find myself incorporating chainmaille design into my jewelry making whenever I can. I'm new to chainmaille but am learning new techniques all the time and really enjoy it.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? I'm an Art teacher by day and have always enjoyed methodical and meticulous types of art and craft. In the art realm, I love techniques like stippling and in the craft world I really enjoy crochet. Chainmaille has a similar meticulous nature that I really enjoy. It's like knitting with metal. I'm a very patient person (I have to be as a mother of five lovely children all close in age) and I enjoy and have high appreciation for craft that takes both skill and patience.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? 18 gauge--It's such a flexible size for creating new designs. I like to make jewelry that has a nice weight to it without becoming overwhelming and I keep coming back to 18 gauge again and again because I love the weight of the finished pieces.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? Right now I'm addicted to making bracelets, although I've also got a few necklace designs that I'm in the middle of on my design board. Because I'm a busy mom and also have a day job, bracelets are fun for me. I can complete them in a few sittings, in between diaper changes and making dinner.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? I'd love to learn some three dimensional weaves. I've seen pictures of chainmaille spheres inside spheres and I just think that's really cool. I like the geometry of it, but have no idea how to do it myself.

6) Which piece are you most proud of? I have a steampunk vintage bronze colored copper bracelet that I just finished in the Puno weave that I then filed to give it a distressed look and let some of the natural copper show through. I'm a beginner, so I haven't yet tackled large and complex pieces. I have a chainmaille flower design of my own making that I'm chaining to create a necklace, but it's only half finished at the moment. I'm constantly learning and that's a lot of fun for me.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Find some online tutorials, get some scrap wire to practice, and just get started. You'll learn as you go and it's an interesting challenge.

Thank you so much, and welcome to the guild.

Angles Collection

2010-11-02T03:52:00.001-05:00

Angles

Introducing Bathory's Chainmaille

2010-10-29T20:49:00.000-05:00

It is time to introduce another of our newer members. This week we are meeting Brooke from Bathory's Chainmaille. As always we posed some questions to Brooke, so let's go and see how she answers.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? I've been making chainmaille for about 4 or 5 years now. My cousin dabbled a bit and showed me how to do byzantine, and from there I fell in love with it. Now she has no time for it and I'm still going strong! Every time I see a new weave or trick, I just have to try it!

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? Well, I enjoy a lot of crafts. I sculpt with sculpey, make candles, crochet, etc; but I think I love chainmaille most because of the ability to be uniform. You can decide what you want, make it, and have it. You can't really do that with clay or wax. I love the control of
the rings.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? Well, I started with steel and it was my first love. Now I've discovered how much more fun aluminum is! Much lighter, cheaper, comes in colors, and it is still quite strong. It's my new favorite, but
steel still holds a special place in my heart.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? My two favorite projects are my scale flowers and any bracelet. I love the flowers because I can do them quickly and can make them very colorful. I love bracelets in general because I love watching them
string out, and occasionally flipping them over my wrist to see my progress.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you dont currently know? I keep meaning to try Jens Pind. It's really pretty with different colors, but I always either get distracted and wind up doing another weave, or I find I got the wrong sized rings to try it with ... then do another weave ...

6) Which piece are you most proud of? There are two pieces I'm most proud of, actually. The first is my scale flower because it has become my signature piece. The second is a chainmaille bag I made for a DnD game. The bottom looks awful, but it was my first bag. It just takes so long for me to make a sheet to turn into a bag that that's the only bag I've made. The other few sheets I've made are used as, well, sheets. I my boyfriend and I both have one of my E-4n1 sheets and we put them on our faces if we get fever or too hot in the summer. WONDERFUL for that! Just couldn't turn them into bags after that.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Haha! My advice to anyone trying to get into chainmaille is to contact me! I taught my boyfriend how to do chain and scale maille, taught 3 other people in my area how to do it, and at least 3 people have contacted me on Facebook asking me for advice. I send the people who contact me over the internet a pre-typed email now of really good tutorial site that I still use, several suppliers with my own brief description of each's service, and a few helpful and fun hints that I think they might find handy. I think I also have in there somewhere a run down of which metals are my favorites and why. One guy said he didn't have the money for one of those starter kits I linked him to, so I told him he could at least practice with coiled and cut paperclips to get the hang of some of the weaves. He's doing quite well, too!

Thanks Brooke, and welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild.

Heavy Metal Collection

2010-10-25T23:03:00.000-05:00

Heavy Metal

Heavy Rainbow

2010-10-25T00:21:00.002-05:00

Heavy Rainbow

Curated By: WestminsterSt...

Simply Silver Collection

2010-10-24T02:59:00.002-05:00

Simply Silver

Jewelry Supplies

Introducing TheLuckyDogs!

2010-10-21T22:20:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild blog where we are introducing another of our new members. This week we are meeting Linda and Robert from The Lucky Dogs. Linda answered our questions, so let's go and find out more about them.

1) How long have you been a Chainmailler? About 3 years now.

2) Why do you like Chainmaille? To me, it's fun, easy and soothing and I love the feel of it.

3) What is your favourite type of ring? Probably 18 ga Sterling Silver, although I do enjoy making micro chain with 22 ga sterling, too.

4) What kind of items do you prefer to make? Standard chainmaille with not much embellishment - meaning using only metal, not adding beads or gems. Bracelets, anklets and earrings are my favorites, although I'm currently working on a headdress.

5) Which weave would you like to learn that you don't currently know? I want to learn to make baskets using whatever weave it takes.

6) Which piece are you most proud of? I've done a tunic for Robert - it's taken about 80 hours with him coiling the large rings and clipping them apart and then me assembling. It's a large piece and it's pretty fun to show off. And it is my favorite weave - European 4-in-1.

7) What advice would you give to someone who was considering doing Chainmaille? Start with the best tools you can afford, practice practice practice, and have fun!

Thanks so much Linda, and Robert. And welcome to the ArtFire Chainmaille Guild

Jazzy Japanese

2010-10-19T04:17:00.000-05:00

Jazzy Japanese

Chainmaille Candy

2010-10-16T04:02:00.000-05:00

Chainmaille Candy