Easy Necklace Extenders
by Karen Meador, Ph.D.
Handmade extenders allow you to vary the length of a necklace. Sometimes I want a piece short and other times, especially when I'm wearing it with a collared garment, I want it longer. Extenders make this length change quick and easy.
Instructions
An extender is usually 2 to 4 inches in length and has opposing clasps on each end, or a ring on one end and clasp on the other.
Karen Meador, Ph.D.'s Easy Necklace Extenders - , General Education, Making Chain, Chain Making , Loops, Wire Loop, Wrapped Wire Loop, extender
You simply attach the clasp of the extender to the opposing clasp of the necklace on each side and you're good to go.
Karen Meador, Ph.D.'s Easy Necklace Extenders - , General Education, Making Chain, Chain Making , Loops, Wire Loop, Wrapped Wire Loop, necklace extender
You can use purchased chain for the extender or make your own lengths. I usually do the latter since I like to be able to quickly change the length of the extender by removing a link or two.

I make extenders and leave them in the boutiques that sell my jewelry. I also take them with me to art shows where I vend. These little jewels have saved many a sale. I have some regular customers who depend on my willingness to lengthen their necklaces in this manner. If the customer doesn't want to use an extender, I can steal the length of chain from one and permanently lengthen the necklace. It works great.

The extenders in the photo are copper; however, I like to keep both copper and sterling silver extenders available for use. Be prepared for customer preferences.
Karen Meador, Ph.D.'s Easy Necklace Extenders - , General Education, Making Chain, Chain Making , Loops, Wire Loop, Wrapped Wire Loop, necklace extender

Materials

18 Gauge Round Half Hard .925 Sterling Silver Wire
H8-18H
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $3.58
  • Gold Club Price: $2.69
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Chains
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Wire
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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
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Round Nose Wire Pliers
G2-507
  • G2-507
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $32.95
  • Gold Club Price: $24.71
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C.H.P Milano Italian Flush Cutter, 5 1/2 Inches
PLR-487.00
  • PLR-487.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $16.97
  • Gold Club Price: $12.73
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): Chain Making, Making Loops