Create a Chainmaille Bracelet

On February 1, you are invited to join us to learn how to create a beautiful copper chainmaille bracelet using jumprings with jewellery artist, Sue Cahoon.

This is a traditional chainmaille pattern, and goes by many names: queen's chain, princess chain, box chain, and Inca puno. Chainmaille has been around for a long time, it originated in the medieval ages of knights and swords, and was used as armor to protect oneself from getting gored by swords and other sharp weapons when going to battle.

It is a fairly straightforward process, but does take some concentration.

Crafters will need to bring the following:
-- Glasses that they can see up close with (very important)
-- 2 pairs of flat nosed pliers, small as you can get them. The interior sides that touch must be flat. These are often sold at the Dollar Store. Or alternatively, 1 pair + a fork
-- A ruler, at least 8 inches long
-- A cloth mat, to keep the jump rings manageable on the table
 
There will be printed directions as well, and Sue will provide a list of materials suppliers and websites for free chainmaille patterns. 

Sue's bio...

"I've recently retired from 20 years at Georgian College as a Co-op Consultant, helping students find co-op and graduate jobs. When I was there, I met a lady who was selling jewelry, and she noticed the glass pendant I was wearing. I hadn't made it myself, but being a stained glass hobbyist for the last 25 years or so, I knew a thing or two about glass. She said she was looking for someone to supply her with similar pendants, and my little entrepreneurial brain thought for a second, and then my big mouth blurted out "I could do that", even though I had never made any jewelry before.

Well, that's how it started, and it is still ongoing. While I started with glass, I have now evolved to include both copper and sterling silver jewelry. Other than making jewelry, I love working in my garden, golfing with my husband, and continuing my volunteer work with Furry Friends. Please check out Furry Friends website at www.furryfriendsshelter.org. I'm responsible for photographing our darlings, and putting their bios on the website.The meeting is held at the Simcoe County Museum at 1pm sharp until 3pm. The general public is invited to attend. There is a charge of $5 for members and $10 for non-members which covers instruction, materials and refreshments. Check the website closer to the date to find out what tools you should bring with you."

Sue also sells her wire jewelry online, and members can see it at:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5344158

The meeting is held at the Simcoe County Museum at 1pm sharp until 3:30pm. The general public is invited to attend. There is a charge of $5 for members and $10 for non-members which covers instruction, materials and refreshments.