Details of Chain Maille Jewelry by Karen Karon

Level: All Skill Levels
Requirements: Basic Chain Maille Experience Preferred
Program: Winter
Status: Wait List
Length: 5 Sessions
Tuition: $ 215
Materials: $ 40
Date: March 01, 2012 - March 29, 2012
Time: Every Thursday at 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Metalwerx

Chain Maille is an ancient art form that dates back over two thousand years. Chain Maille garments were worn for protection in battle by warriors from Europe, the Middle East and the Orient. Patterns developed that were unique to each region. Learn to transform some of these classic patterns of connected rings into striking pieces of jewelry.

In this intermediate class, students will learn to create weaves that are more complex in nature than those covered in the introductory course. Instruction will cover the Round Maille weaves, (Round, Turkish and Inverted), the Persian weaves (Full Persian or Foxtail, Half Persian 4-in-1, 3-in-1 and 3-in-1 sheet), and the "Dragon" weaves (Dragonscale, Dragonback and Persian Dragonscale). Students will also make a "Half Persian Starter Tool" to aid in the construction of the Half Persian weaves.

Weave samples will be made using aluminum rings, giving the students the freedom to experiment. Emphasis will be on mastering weave patterns and design options.

You can see more of Karen's work on her website www.karenkaron.com

This class is 5 sessions long. Each session is 3 hours. If a make-up class is necessary, it will be held on April 5.

Materials & Tools

The $40 materials fee, payable when signing up, includes plenty of bright aluminum jump rings for practicing all the chain maille techniques as well as an extensive color handout documenting all weaves covered in class.

Students Should Bring:

Please note that Metalwerx has pliers and optivisors on hand if students do not already have these tools. Keep in mind, you might have to share.

• 2 Pairs of Pliers with Smooth Jaws - (2 chain nose, 2 flat nose, or one of each – use what you feel most comfortable with. My personal preference is 2 flat nose.)
• Optivisor or other form of magnification if necessary
• Approximately 10-12 6mm round beads - if you have them. If not, don't worry about it for the first class session.