Chain Maille: Orc Weave for Bracelets and Earrings

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.

This workshop teaches two related weaves, Orc Weave (by Laura Hepworth) and Gridlock Orc, through the construction of an Orc Weave bracelet and a pair of Gridlock Orc earrings in sterling silver.  Each student will receive enough supplies to make one pair of heart-shaped or diamond-shaped earrings and a bracelet approximately 8” in length, as well as aluminum jump rings to practice skills. 

This class is will include some weaving with small jump rings in tight spaces, therefore it is designed for intermediate to advanced level chain maille students. It is assumed that all students who enroll are proficient weavers, know the difference between Through-the-Eye and Around-the-Eye connections, and understand gauge, inner/outer diameter, and aspect ratio. For potential students who are interested but don'tmeet the pre-requisites, please contact us so we can help!