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Reshaping Chain Links to Fit Jump Rings
A tip from @theresaapplegatejewelry on reshaping or gently stretching a single chain link over a tapered tool to fit a jump ring.
Posted over 1 year ago
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2,866 likes
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72 comments
This is such a helpful tip from @theresaapplegatejewelry
“I like to purchase chain by the foot and finish it to length but I do not like to solder end caps with the clasp. Purchasing chain in bulk saves me money and allows for full control over the design but it can get fiddly when connecting components. This trick will work if you simply need to change the shape of the interior diameter of the chain link.
For example, if the link is an oval, forming it into a circle could accommodate the jump ring you’re using to connect components. Sometimes the link needs to be a smidge larger so you can stretch it gently by pushing it down over something tapered.
I’m using a straight pin and a broken bur for the delicate chain and pushing it down with my fingers taking care to exert pressure only on the link I want to form ensuring I do not stretch the whole chain.
If the chain is more robust, you can use a hammer and block of wood to get the job done. As always, inspect your work carefully to be sure the link is not compromised and solder every jump ring always. I like to squish my jump rings next to the clasp into ovals using my parallel pliers but you do you.”
Thank you for taking the time to share, with our community! We appreciate you!!#jewelrymakingtips #jewelrytools #jewelrymakingcommunity #makingjewelry #jewelrytips #jewelrymakingtip #chainmakingtechnique making
“I like to purchase chain by the foot and finish it to length but I do not like to solder end caps with the clasp. Purchasing chain in bulk saves me money and allows for full control over the design but it can get fiddly when connecting components. This trick will work if you simply need to change the shape of the interior diameter of the chain link.
For example, if the link is an oval, forming it into a circle could accommodate the jump ring you’re using to connect components. Sometimes the link needs to be a smidge larger so you can stretch it gently by pushing it down over something tapered.
I’m using a straight pin and a broken bur for the delicate chain and pushing it down with my fingers taking care to exert pressure only on the link I want to form ensuring I do not stretch the whole chain.
If the chain is more robust, you can use a hammer and block of wood to get the job done. As always, inspect your work carefully to be sure the link is not compromised and solder every jump ring always. I like to squish my jump rings next to the clasp into ovals using my parallel pliers but you do you.”
Thank you for taking the time to share, with our community! We appreciate you!!#jewelrymakingtips #jewelrytools #jewelrymakingcommunity #makingjewelry #jewelrytips #jewelrymakingtip #chainmakingtechnique making
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