The following chains are the first made by students at the Lorton Workhouse enrolled in Dana Evans' Chain-Making Class. The 5-week class will make: Viking Knit chains, Link chains, and a Folded Loop in Loop chain. Class isn't over yet- so stay tuned for pictures of the final chains soon! These sterling silver Viking Knit chains were started in week 1 (Joan and Barbara's chains). The ladies took the chains-in-progress home and worked on them over the next week to complete the desired length. These bracelet chains were assembled in week 2 and oxidized to bring out the contrast in the weave.


Week 2 of chain-making also included learning how to solder. Students made their own toggle clasps from sterling silver! They then assembled the chain with pre-made endcaps and used wire techniques to attach the toggles.

Weeks 3 and 4 were used perfecting soldering techniques while making some mixed-metal (silver, brass and copper) linked chains. It may look easy- but took many hours to attach and solder new rings onto the growing chain. Joan, Ann, and Barbara's chains are gorgeous!

The students even made their own S-clasps for attaching the 2 ends of chain together.

5th and final week: Folding loop in loop chains- check back for pics!