Byzantine Chain

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The Byzantine is a great project. A good beginner/advanced project that has many variations. Change jump ring size or metal (Sterling silver, 14kt Gold Filled, Copper) and create many different looks. Kits contain jump rings and instructions. See our free byzantine chain instructions below. You will need a flat nose plier, chain nose plier and Awl to complete this project.

BYZANTINE
BRACELET KITS

This is a great chain for beginners who want a little challenge. The byzantine chain's old world style makes a beautiful bracelet or necklace. There are so many variations to this project that will keep your work fresh and interesting.

Kits include jump rings, ring/toggle clasp and instruction booklet. If you already know this project (or want to make a necklace length), go directly to the Jump Rings page.
Look at the Byzantine Kits we Offer!

How to Make A Byzantine Chain The Byzantine chain pattern repeats every 6 jump rings (or 3 pair). To help you stay in pattern, open six jump rings and place them in a small pile. Prepare several sets and keep them separate. When you run out of jump rings you will be reminded that the pattern starts again.
STEP 1: The Starter Close 2 jump rings, (pair A) attach 2 jump rings (Pair B), then two more (Pair C). Attach a small piece of wire to the end pair to create a handle. [For faster chain making, open jump rings and organize in piles of six rings.]
STEP 2: The Grip Hold the starter by the wire and let the jump rings hang. Use your thumb and finger so that you pinch Pair A & B. This isolation technique will make it easier to build your chain. If you move your hand, only pair C should move back and forth.
STEP 3: The Flip Turn you hand so that you are pointing the starter at the ceiling. (C is now on top). Flip pair C open like the petals of a flower.
STEP 4: The Separation Using an Awl or pointed tool, separate the rings of pair B. If you lose your place start over (step 2: the grip) and focus on pinching pair A/B to keep the rings from moving too much.
STEP 5: The Invert Insert the awl inside ring C; splitting pair B; and up through the other ring C. It is a slight scoop motion. Keep the angle of the awl shallow. Pair A never comes in to play in this step.
STEP 6: The Push Push the awl into the chain. The link should appear like the photo. You have used all 6 rings and the pattern now repeats. Are your six rings open and ready?
STEP 7: The Hold Grasp the chain firmly, then remove the awl. A firm pressure will keep the chain from collapsing while you pickup and add your next set of jump rings. You have completed one set.
STEP 8: Insert New A Insert a jump ring (new Pair A) onto the spot that was occupied by the awl. This may feel awkward at first, but you will quickly become proficient. I use a sweeping motion like setting a hook.
STEP 9: Close the jump ring with a second plier. Work it back and forth with a slight inward pressure so there is no opening on the ring.
STEP 10: Don’t put down the chain just yet. Reinsert the awl to hold your spot open. Whenever I need to put down my chain I always put the awl back in.
STEP 11: Pair B, C Pick up another jump ring and place it next to the first. Pair A is now complete. Add pair B and Pair C as you did to make the starter and repeat the entire process. (Step 2)

Byzantine Chain	Full Kit -rings, clasp, instructions	Skill Level
20 gauge 3.0mm ID	Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 20ga 3.0ID Sterling Silver $ 20.78 Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 20ga 3.0ID 14kt Gold Filled $ 32.78	This is an excellent choice for making a necklace.	Buy Jump Rings Only
18 gauge 3.5mm ID	Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 18ga 3.5ID Sterling Silver $ 33.92 Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 18ga 3.5ID 14kt Gold Filled $ 55.00	More challenging than the 4.0ID.	Buy Jump Rings Only
18 gauge 4.0mm ID	Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 18ga 4.0ID Sterling Silver $ 36.44 Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 18ga 4.0ID 14kt Gold Filled $ 59.28	A great place to start!	Buy Jump Rings Only
16 gauge 4.5mm ID	Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 16ga 4.5ID Sterling Silver $ 62.60 Byzantine Bracelet Kit; 16ga 4.5ID 14kt Gold Filled $ 104.30	This is a excellent heavy weight choice	Buy Jump Rings Only

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