Ball Chain Of A Different Color

Hi, all!   This week I made two jewels from hardware store ball chain.  I did it using a fun trick with a finding meant for a different purpose.

First the jewels, then the trick!

I started with this beautiful multicolored ball chain, isn't it the prettiest stuff?

I found it at a local Ace Hardware.  (If anybody knows an online source, leave it for us in the comments, eh?)

The finding in question is a type of bead tip (typically used for adding clasps to ball chain or strung beads).  This is the kind that closes sideways instead of folding in half.

Now for the big trick.  I clamped a bead tip onto the end of a short length of ball chain, like so:

And...welp, that's it!  Simple, yes?  And there are tons of ways to create jewelry from this interesting component.

To assemble an earring, I used these ingredients:

Using jump rings, I added the ball chain segments to a filigree.

Then I connected the fishhook ear wire to the top.

If you have two ears, make a second earring.   Done!

Note: if you have been coming here long enough, you know that I don't have pierced ears, so instead I wear ear cuffs.  Here's my ear cuff version:

Either way, these earrings are awesomely swingy and surprisingly light to wear!

The necklace went together pretty quickly, too.    They key difference: put bead tips on both ends of each ball chain segment.  This close-up shows the construction a bit better.

I made three double-ended chain segments in graduated sizes.  I threaded them onto craft wire, separated by silver beads.    I finished with a small loop on each end - and added more ball chain for the necklace.

If you can't find the colorful chain, use regular silver or gold tone.  Just think how many ways you can use these little ball chain segments!  How about fringe at the bottom of a large multi-loop pendant?  How about individual skinny ball chain earrings?  How about a great big tassel?

Let's hear your suggestions!

Alrighty, then, that's today's project - thanks for visiting, hope you enjoyed!

p.s. Interested in making your own simple ear cuffs?  Check out this tutorial.