CHAIN MAILLE - Fused

Description: In the Fused Chain-Maillé class we will explore the construction of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings which have all of their ends "soldered" together. All of the work will be done with Argentium wire. Argentium is a special class of Sterling Silver that has Germanium added to replace a small amount of the Copper in the Sterling. This changes some of the properties of the silver. Specifically it allows the silver to be fused. This allows us to join the ends of a ring without having to fool with solder. It only requires smooth ends on the ring and heat on the joint. 

Working with fused links allows us to do many different things that we are unable to do in traditional Chain-Maille. For example, it is extremely easy to fuse the ends of a ring and then stretch it into an oval shape with pliers. This gives us many different shapes to work with in our designs.
 
This class will also cover the construction of clasps and other accessories. An introduction to patterning techniques will also be covered.


Materials: Materials Needed: 20ga, 18ga, 16ga, & 14ga Argentium Wire. Students who have this should bring it to the class. The instructor will have materials which can be purchased.
Prerequisite: None
Fee: $30
Duration: 3-4 Weeks

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