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Infinity Link Chain

(registration instructions below)

Learn fundamental wire working while creating this great infinity link chain!  This chain looks great on its own or interspersed with other components. We will explore how to make very regular teardrop loops out of both 16ga. and 18ga. wire to form the infinity shape.  This skill is used to create all kinds of connections in jewelry design and the lessons will also help to provide working knowledge of how to control wire forming increasing your ability to craft more difficult forms.  The repetitive nature of the project helps to solidify the skills and will undoubtedly provide the opportunity to discover various pitfalls and how to correct their issues.  You can choose to work in copper or silver wire and make either a bracelet or necklace.  Please note that you may not complete a necklace in class, but the additional practice is a great way to solidify what you learn in class. Once you master these links, check out the Infinity Link Wide Chain Maille Bracelet Class to learn how to incorporate them into wide chain maille.

Discipline:  Wire-working

Working with precious/semi-precious wire to form jewelry components.

Level:  Beginner (*)

This is a great skills class to forming wire.  The repetitive quality of this project allows one to become comfortable with the process.  The links are extremely versatile and are the basis for some of my more advanced projects.

Where?

Desert Jewel Studio, 26839 N 44th St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331. You will receive directions upon registering for class.

When?

This class is not on the schedule at this time.  If you are interested in taking it, e-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com with your interest and availability.

How do I sign up?

Class will be $50/person. E-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com or call Jen at (480)635-2402 to register any time from noon to 10pm.

What will I need to bring to class?

Project Materials:

16 ga. and/or 18 ga. wire in copper or dead soft silver depending on the project you choose to execute.  I will have wire available for sale in class as well as the silver lobster clasps.

The projects shown in the pic above require the following:

bracelet – 22″ of 16 ga. wire – (11 links – 2″ per link) ($12 kit)

necklace (18.5″ long) – 54″ of 18 ga. wire – (36 links – 1.5″ per link) ($17 kit)

 

Tools:

  • Jewelry grade file(s) – (needle files are fine for this)
  • Pin vise fitted with a 2.1mm (for 16ga) or 1.7mm (for 18ga) cup bur (optional)
  • Flush cutter
  • Sharpie marker (ultra fine point)
  • Ruler
  • Chain-nose jewelry pliers
  • Flat-nose jewelry pliers
  • Step pliers (Beadsmith # PL48) –Required!  Please let me know if you have trouble getting these as I can have some available for purchase in class.
  • Sanding sponges/Steel wool (#00)/Polishing pad (also available for sale in class)
  • Magnifying glasses – most people don’t think they need them until they are faced with seeing the detail of jewelry close-up.
  • Covered water or other refreshing beverage
  • Snacks are always welcome as well. 🙂

The majority of the above items are available locally at C&D Silver, SJ Jewelry Supply, Lonnie’s Jewelry Supply or other on-line jewelry supply sources. If you have any difficulty or questions about obtaining any of these items, please contact Jen to inquire about your options.