Building on Snake Style Chain
Question:
I have some lovely sterling snake-style chain that I would like to experiment with. I want to open up one link so I can add a jump ring or wire to this chain. How do I open one link of this chain which seems to be pressed closed?
-Joanne in Sound Beach, New York
I have some lovely sterling snake-style chain that I would like to experiment with. I want to open up one link so I can add a jump ring or wire to this chain. How do I open one link of this chain which seems to be pressed closed?
-Joanne in Sound Beach, New York
Instructions
Answer:
Exactly, Joanne! Trying to open that final factory-soldered link on a snake chain is really tricky and often weakens the piece. Instead of risking that weak point, your idea of attaching to the chain by making a wrapped loop around an existing link is spot on.
By carefully wrapping wire loops around the chain link, you keep the integrity of the chain intact while securely connecting your jump rings or additional components. Wrapped loops are strong and reliable, plus they fit perfectly with the traditional wire-working style that avoids soldering or gluing.
Have you tried this technique before, or are you looking for tips on making those wrapped loops neat and durable?
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Exactly, Joanne! Trying to open that final factory-soldered link on a snake chain is really tricky and often weakens the piece. Instead of risking that weak point, your idea of attaching to the chain by making a wrapped loop around an existing link is spot on.
By carefully wrapping wire loops around the chain link, you keep the integrity of the chain intact while securely connecting your jump rings or additional components. Wrapped loops are strong and reliable, plus they fit perfectly with the traditional wire-working style that avoids soldering or gluing.
Have you tried this technique before, or are you looking for tips on making those wrapped loops neat and durable?
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Here's a picture of a suggestion from one of our readers, LadyMockingbird:
"When I use fine snake chains I purchase for them a special sort of crimp style clasp or end cap with a loop.
I use the crimp style clasps when I just want to finish off the chain ends.
When I want to include shorter lengths of chain I use the ones that just have a loop or closed ring at the ends.
These crimp closures are similar to one used for satin cords, leather cords, or tiger tail. However, they are more sturdy in nature." -LadyMockingbird
I use the crimp style clasps when I just want to finish off the chain ends.
When I want to include shorter lengths of chain I use the ones that just have a loop or closed ring at the ends.
These crimp closures are similar to one used for satin cords, leather cords, or tiger tail. However, they are more sturdy in nature." -LadyMockingbird
Materials
Sterling Silver Crimp End Cap Fancy 8.5mm / .85mm Inner Diameter - Pack of 6
K10-26
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $8.64
- Gold Club Price: $6.48
Sterling Silver Crimp End Cap Fancy6.4mm /.95mm Inner Diameter - Pack of 6
K10-27
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $5.06
- Gold Club Price: $3.79
Gold Filled Bright End Caps 1mm - Pack of 2
J10-10
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $3.44
- Gold Club Price: $2.58
Gold Filled Bright End Caps 2mm - Pack of 2
J10-11
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $3.37
- Gold Club Price: $2.53
Gold Filled Bright End Caps 3mm - Pack of 2
J10-12
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $3.37
- Gold Club Price: $2.53
Sterling Silver Dia. Cut Snake Chain 1.62mm - 10 Feet
C8-233U
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $206.77
- Gold Club Price: $155.08
Sterling Silver Dia. Cut Snake Chain 2 Tone (Gunmetal / Silver) 1.62mm - 10 Feet
C8-234U
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $145.37
- Gold Club Price: $109.03
Sterling Silver Dia. Cut Snake Chain 2 Tone (Rose / Silver) 1.62mm - 10 Feet
C8-235U
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $123.87
- Gold Club Price: $92.90
Sterling Silver Snake Chain 1mm - 10 Feet
C8-358U
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $178.23
- Gold Club Price: $133.68
Tools
Chain Nose Wire Pliers
G2-508
- G2-508
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $32.95
- Gold Club Price: $24.71
Flat Nose Wire Pliers
G2-506
- G2-506
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $32.95
- Gold Club Price: $24.71
Supply Detail
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- Category: Findings
- Technique(s): General Education
Dale Armstrong
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