Chainmaille is a versatile style of jewelry created by linking small metal rings together. Each individual ring must be opened, linked to other rings in a pattern, then closed seamlessly. It can be made into thin bracelets, chunky cuffs, anklets, chokers, long necklaces, earrings or almost any other type of jewelry you can imagine. Chainmaille can also be used to make a large variety of other items, including bags, coasters, decorative pieces, and of course, armor.
While chainmaille can be made of many different metals, I prefer to work in anodized aluminum, a lightweight metal that comes in a rainbow of gorgeous colors. Aluminum rings can also be combined with latex-free rubber rings to create claspless stretchy bracelets and anklets. Aluminum jewelry is easy to care for and has a very low incidence of skin reactions, making it excellent for people with nickel allergies.
I have also made pieces in copper, stainless steel and titanium. Copper is heavier that aluminum, and naturally develops a beautiful patina. Copper can also be kept in its natural color with a high shine if cleaned. Stainless steel is also heavier, and very strong. This makes it excellent for men's jewelry, as it is pretty tough to break. Titanium is much lighter than copper or stainless steel, but much stronger. It also has a very low incidence of skin reaction, making it excellent for people with skin allergies. It can be colored as well, although the colors are more muted than the brilliant colors of anodized aluminum.
