How to Open and Close Jump Rings

by Marilyn Gardiner
We are fortunate to have Marilyn Gardiner as one of our contributors and today we share one of her simple tips -take a look!
Instructions
To Open a Ring:

1. I use 2 pairs of pliers to hold the sides of a jump ring with the opening at the top (12 o'clock).

2. I prefer flat nose pliers because they provide more leverage, are easier on my wrist, and are less likely to mark the metal.

3. Notice that the pliers in my left (non-dominant) hand point to the ceiling and hold the left side of the ring steady. The pliers in my right (dominant) hand are parallel to the table top and turn that side of the ring towards me.
Marilyn Gardiner's How to Open and Close Jump Rings - , Chain Maille Jewelry, Making Chain, Chain Making , Opening a jump ring
To Close a Ring:

1. I use 2 pairs of pliers to hold the sides of a jump ring with the opening at the top (12 o'clock).

2. I bring the ring ends back together by rotating the wrist of my dominant hand and exerting inward pressure. I often hear a "click" as the ends touch. My dominant hand does all the work-the other hand just holds on tight.

3. The goal is to have the two ends lined up exactly, with no space between them.

4. I move the ends back and forth by small amounts to adjust the fit. If I go a bit past where they are even, the ends will spring back and line up exactly.

5. Take the time to close each ring carefully-this is the mark of professional work.

6. Use a superfine emery board or metal file to remove rough spots from the seam where the cut ends meet. Rub with your fingertip to test.

Materials

Jump rings by metal type
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Tools

Flat Nose Wire Pliers
G2-506
  • G2-506
  • Lesson Quantity: 2.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 2.00 each
  • Price: $32.95
  • Gold Club Price: $24.71
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  • Category: Chain Maille
  • Technique(s): Chain Making