Interchangeable bracelets and necklaces
In this project learn how to mix and match chains and necklace centrepieces by using clever connectors.
Or why not wear your bracelet as a necklace for a change?
By Heather Webb
Heather Webb is a lampwork artist and jewellery designer. She especially likes combining chain maille with lampwork. She finds it deeply satisfying to create entire pieces of jewellery from just a few rods of glass and a reel of silver wire. Silver chain maille is stunning, but can be a big investment in both time and money. By using simple connectors you can use the same chains over and over again by adding a variety of beaded centrepieces. No tools required!
Designer Tips
- Substitute chain maille with ready-made chain, leather cord or a pretty ribbon
- Design and forge your own connectors from silver wire for a really unique piece
- Substitute silver maille with copper maille and copper findings
- Vary the length of your centrepieces and/or chains to your own preference
MATERIALS
- 30cm length of chainmaille in your chosen weave
- Alternatively, length of ready made chain or leather cord
- Your choice of lampwork beads and silver spacers for centrepieces
- 18cm 18 gauge (1mm) half hard Sterling silver wire
- Your choice of connector: S-clasp & jumprings, toggle & bar, lobster clasp
- Leather cord ends if using leather
- 2 pairs chain nose pliers
- Round nose pliers
- Flat nose pliers
Step 1
Take one length of chain maille 30cm long. I have chosen jens pind linkage. Attach your choice of connector to either end. S-clasps, toggle and bar clasps and triggerless clasps are particularly suitable for this project.
Step 2
Create your centrepiece, using your choice of lampwork beads and spacers. I have used 18 gauge (1mm) silver wire, finishing with wrapped loops, but let your imagination run riot. The finished centrepiece should measure approximately 13cm so that the finished necklace measures 43cm.
Step 3
If you have chosen S-clasp connectors, add a jumpring to the wrapped loop of the centrepiece and using this ring, clip the centrepiece to the clasp.
Step 4
The S-clasp should be open sufficiently to enable the ring to be clipped on with a little resistance, so that it holds fast. It’s as easy as that! New centrepieces can be clipped onto the s-clasps in the same way to ring the changes.
Step 5
If using a toggle and bar clasp on your chain, mirror the clasp end on the centrepiece.
Step 6
Join the centrepiece to the chain. This is a great way to wear any bracelets that are finished with toggle and bar clasps, as necklaces.
fashion tips
The mix and match options of how to wear these clever bracelets is endless. Be daring and wear bright bold and beautiful coloured cardigans and tops with leather trousers or cords. Forget black or brown and look for soft leather ankle boots in a colour that will co-ordinate with your beads.
Encrusted ring £7.99 River Island
Ankle boot £55 Marks & Spencer
Cardigan £45, jeans £65, belt £12, T-Shirt £28 Freemans
Resources:
Lampwork beads and silver cores from:
www.BumpyBeads.co.uk
Gold lead silver core bead
by Sabine Little:
www.littlecastledesigns.co.uk.
Cute mouse silver core bead by Helen Prole:
www.beadybugs.co.uk
All other tools and materials: www.palmermetals.co.uk