Steel Empire Chain Maille Bracelet Tutorial

Created by: Rita Hutchinson

Designer Tips

This is a variation of the standard Byzantine weave, called Byzantine with 3 connectors. I wanted to use all stainless steel for this bracelet, but the aspect ratio (wire diameter vs inside diameter) of the 6mm stainless steel jump rings would have created a loose weave if I had followed the normal Byzantine weave pattern. By adding the 3rd connector, the weave becomes tighter and sturdier.
Weave Got Mail Byzantine kits, or some Chain Mail books, provide step-by-step instructions for the Byzantine weave.
These stainless rings come closed. You will have to open a number of them, but won't have to do any additional work to have closed rings.
Use 6mm jump rings for the Byzantine weave, and use one 5mm jump ring to attach the bracelet to the clasp.

This finished bracelet is 8". Vary the length by adding or subtracting units from the chain.
For additional tips, see the blog post: How to Make Chain Maille (from a kit).

Free Technique Sheets & How-Tos

Suggested Supplies

1 pkg of 100 [use 1] #37-001-520 Stainless Steel Jump Ring, Stainless Steel, Round, 5mm
2 pkgs of 100 [use 199] #37-001-618 Stainless Steel Jump Ring, Stainless Steel, Round, 6mm
1 dozen [use 1] #39-940-12 Stainless Steel Lobster Clasp, 12mm

Tools