Topics: Findings, Extender/Safety Chain
Q.
What do I need to add to my bracelet designs to keep them from falling off and being lost--my customers are asking and I want to be able to offer them a solution. Thanks.
A.
Safety or extender chains are the ideal solution for keeping jewelry from falling off and being lost forever because they add extra security to the clasp. You can use a premade extender chain or make your own from any type of chain that complements your design.
Adding an extender chain to a bracelet:
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Depending on the construction of the bracelet you are making, adding the chain so it is part of the design before finishing integrates an extender-chain seamlessly. You can use a premade extender chain with links on each end using the chain as-is as long as the cording fits through the links. Or, make a safety chain by adding jumprings to any length of chain suitable for your design needs. Make sure the chain is long enough so the finished design fits over the wrist as the length or opening of the bracelet will be fixed, like a bangle bracelet.
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You may find you need to add a chain after the design is finished or you have a customer that would like you to add this to a design they already own. Simply add jumprings to each end of a length of chain (making sure the chain is long enough so the finished design can fit over the wrist like a bangle bracelet) then connect the jumprings in between elements of the design near the clasp or to each half of the clasp itself.
Materials Resources
- ''Opening a Jumpring'' how-to video and illustrated instructions
- ''A Dozen Ways to End a Necklace'' article