Foolproof Jump Ring Closures
Question:
I use sterling silver jump rings on bracelets to attach clasps. They have pulled apart, and I am wondering if I should use another material to attach the clasps so they are not as fragile.
-Fran in Charlotte, North Carolina
I use sterling silver jump rings on bracelets to attach clasps. They have pulled apart, and I am wondering if I should use another material to attach the clasps so they are not as fragile.
-Fran in Charlotte, North Carolina
Instructions
Answer:
I don't think it's the metal, Fran, but it could be the ratio of the gauge to the weight of the bracelet.
I asked our WS Faculty chainmaille expert, Lena Bugrimenko, for her opinion. She suggested increasing the jump ring gauge for example, if you're using 20-gauge, try 18-gauge instead.
Lena also shared a great tip: sometimes she uses a smaller gauge jump ring, like 20- or 21-gauge, but uses two of them at a closure point.
I followed her advice just yesterday. I made an expensive gold-filled and Akoya pearl necklace and was worried about using a 21-gauge ring for the trigger clasp. The chain could catch and open the ring.
So I made two 21-gauge rings (full hard wire, as I always use) and attached both to the trigger clasp. Both fit easily how cool! Thanks, Lena!
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
I don't think it's the metal, Fran, but it could be the ratio of the gauge to the weight of the bracelet.
I asked our WS Faculty chainmaille expert, Lena Bugrimenko, for her opinion. She suggested increasing the jump ring gauge for example, if you're using 20-gauge, try 18-gauge instead.
Lena also shared a great tip: sometimes she uses a smaller gauge jump ring, like 20- or 21-gauge, but uses two of them at a closure point.
I followed her advice just yesterday. I made an expensive gold-filled and Akoya pearl necklace and was worried about using a 21-gauge ring for the trigger clasp. The chain could catch and open the ring.
So I made two 21-gauge rings (full hard wire, as I always use) and attached both to the trigger clasp. Both fit easily how cool! Thanks, Lena!
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Materials
Gold Filled Jump Rings
Sterling Silver Jump Rings
Tools
WireJewelry - Ultimate Wire-Pliers Jewelry Pliers with Case, Set of 5
G15-20
- G15-20
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $170.72
- Gold Club Price: $128.04
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- Category: General Education
- Technique(s): Making Jump Rings
Dale Armstrong
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