I want to mix metals!

[DrB3]

Hi again,
I want to make a charm bracelet that has both gold and silver links so that I can put any kind of charm on it.

I feel more comfortable "mixing metals" when I have a peice of jewelery that was commercially made with both. I can't find exactly what I want, so I'm pulling out the pliers and doing it myself!
I was in Beverly Hills the other day. In a lot of stores there were bracelets for sale that had different colors of chains kind of tangled up. They looked like my messy jewelery box and they sell for over 300 and up. Insanity.

Do you have any yellow "gold" links or chains with larger links and what should I buy to cut a few of them? Which pliers do you recommend? I need a new pair.
Bebe

[Polly]

Hi DrB3,

Try these styles of footage chain(chain by the foot).  They come in a variety of platings (copper, gold, silver, some shiny, some antiqued), link sizes and patterns.

I prefer the 65-507 heavy-duty flush cutters, because they cut smoothly and don't cramp my hand when I have to cut a lot of pieces.

Yes, jewelry with chain and beads mixed together, from cheap faceted plastic beads to high-end gemstone and pearl beads, and everthing in between, looks like a major fashion trend this Fall.

--Polly

[Polly]

Regarding pliers:
If you make a lot of loops, then 65-200 is a good workhorse,  65-206 is a nice price, and 69-099 is good for making nice tiny loops.

If you're looking for a good gripping surface, that still won't scratch your chain other other findings, then
65-336 is a nice narrow-tipped pair.  Also, the 65-300 serrated chain-nose pliers offer a stronger grip, but you need to be careful so the serrations don't scratch your chain or findings.

--Polly

[belfrybeads]

i want to thank you for giving a recommendation for cutters that will cut the soldered chain.  since i haven't really used much chain don't have a pair of cutters designed for it. i have been looking all over the place for some kind of clue as to what cutters to use, and this post finally helped.  i would suggest though that the descriptions on the products themselves could be a little more informative, because when your new to a style or technique, you don't want to waste money finding out you bought the wrong equipment!