Chain Maille Jewelry: Byzantine Rose Weave

Chain maille is a two thousand year old art form originally used to create garments worn for protection by warriors from Europe, the Middle East and the Orient. Modern approaches use these classical patterns of cold-connected jump rings for sculpture and jewelry. For these non-traditional applications, hundreds of new patterns have been invented.

Our chain maille classes and workshops teach students how to transform some of these classic patterns of connected rings into striking pieces of jewelry - The morning session is designed for chain maille beginners, but more experienced students are also welcome. The class will begin with a presentation covering the basics of chain maille (using tools, handling jump rings, opening/closing techniques, common weaving problems and fixes, chain maille terminology, etc.). After the presentation, students will learn the Byzantine weave, the Mobius weave, and how to combine them to make a Byzantine Rose Bracelet in sterling silver. Discussion will include how to use both weaves, separately or together, in various design scenarios (necklaces, earrings, pendants, etc.)