The other day, I decided to try my hand at a somewhat difficult weave -- jens pind linkage. From what I can tell, this weave can scare even the most experienced chain mailers.
I started out with Sue Ripsch's pattern from her book, Classic Chain Mail Jewelry With a Twist. I was surprised that I was able to start the weave without any trouble. Keeping it going, however, proved to be harder.
Jens Pind is a spiral weave and each new ring matches the orientation of the 3rd ring back. While this sounds straight forward, it's hard to see the emerging pattern (especially when using all copper rings). I took out more than a few rings in learning this weave.
I finally turned back to ZiLi's tutorial (ZiLi is a chain maille genius and a regular on the chain maille facebook group I've joined) and something clicked.
I am really taken with this weave. It's both delicate and hefty. The spiral pattern is amazing.
I only had enough of the proper size rings to make a bracelet. I paired my chain with a focal from Staci Louise Originals. Staci's bead looks amazing with the copper.
The intimidating jens pind may now by my favorite weave.
I'm excited to try JPL 5, which is the same weave, but using 5 rings instead of 3. (I think I need to order more rings.) :)
As I menI've already ordered more rings. I can't wait for them to get here.
Hi Tanya,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you had the tenacity to work through your frustration, because the end result is beautiful.
You make chain mail tempting, but I still have not got up the courage to step up to the plate. I have a kit to make a simple (that is what it says on the box) bracelet, so maybe I should give it a try.
Therese
I'm with Therese ... you make mail look amazing and tempting, but still have yet to give this a try! but I want to. This is a really beautiful weave
ReplyDeleteI love chainmaille (although there's none up on my blog) and I'm glad that you tried it out. I think most of it only looks complicated and that it's fairly easy when you set your mind to it. If you're looking for free tutorials and other resources there's this awesome website you should look into.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.mailleartisans.org/
Happy beading!
Amazing stuff, Miss Tanya! I took a beginner's chain maille class at B&B a few years back. I picked up the graduated Byzantine we learned quickly. I would love to do more with things like that but never have the right rings when I need them! I love the look that it adds to your pieces. It sets off the art bead beautifully. Enjoy the day! Erin
ReplyDeleteIsn't it a great feeling to finally conquer a tough technique? Especially when it turns out something as beautiful as this weave! I've really enjoyed following your explorations of chain maille
ReplyDeleteLove seeing what you are doing with chain maille. I won a book on chain maille and really need to just try it. Your bracelet is wonderful!
ReplyDelete