It's no secret that CHAIN NECKLACES and BRACELETS are HUGE this season...I am seeing them everywhere! Single chains, multiple chains, chains with leather woven through them, chains woven with ribbon, chains woven with more chains, colorful resin chains and more! Today, I am going to show you how you can take a simple large link chain necklace in gold, silver, brass, etc. to a new level - just by weaving some leather cord through it. You would be amazed at how this takes it up a notch! And, it's so EASY!!!
TIP #1: Buy your metal chains at fabric stores vs. jewelry supply stores - YES! Why? You will pay a lot less because fabric stores usually sell chain by the yard and it is much more reasonable - plus, you'll find all sorts of fun colors and styles to choose from. Jewelry supply stores sell chain by the foot and it really adds up! So save yourself a little money and try places like Joanne Fabrics, Yardage Town, Mood Fabrics, etc. And while you're there, buy some different colored narrow ribbons as well - these also look great woven through chains. http://www.moodfabrics.com/
GOLD CHAIN
SILVER CHAIN
STAINLESS STEEL CHAIN
COLORFUL TURQUOISE METAL CHAIN
Large Link Gold Finish Chain Woven with 2MM Black Leather Cord
Chain Fringe Necklace from BCBG
TIP #2 - Purchase spools of 2mm leather cord in Black, Brown, Navy or Burgundy from Firemountain Gems. I suggest purchasing leather in 25 meter to 100 meter quantities for the best price.
2MM Size Brown and Black Leather Cord, 100 Meter Spools
Multi-Chain Cuff Bracelet from BCBG
Large Link Gold Finish Chain Necklace with Faceted Czech Glass Accents
TIP #3: Once you have woven the leather cord (or ribbon) through the chain, leave about 4-5" of excess leather at each end of your chain and attach some Czech crystal beads for a little extra dangly effect. Or, try adding a cluster of fun charms as seen in the photo below. Also, save some of the excess pieces of chain and try making an edgy pair of chain earrings to compliment your completed necklace!
Silver Chain Necklace Woven with Powder Blue Satin Ribbon
Edgy Multiple Chain Earrings
TIP #4: Want a more romantic, softer / less edgy look? Try weaving lace through chain instead of leather. This can be done with any color lace and really gives a soft feminine look.
