Things You'll Need:
- curb chain with large (at least 5mm) links
- jeweler's chain-nose (needle nose) plier or bent-nose plier
- jeweler's round nose pliers
- jeweler's flush cutters
- 20 gauge jewelry wire (copper or sterling silver jewelry wire)
- charms with closed loops attached
- needle file
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Step 1
Cut the jewelry wire to about 3 inches long with the flush cutter. A jeweler's flush cutter cuts one end sharp and one end straight and blunt. Trim both ends of your wire to make sure they are both blunt (flush).
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Step 2
With the round nose pliers, create a perfect loop on one end of the wire, leaving a tail crossing over the loop and a tail perpendicular to the loop. Don't close the loop.
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Step 3
Fasten the wire's loop to the charm's loop with your fingers. Then slip the still-unclosed loop into one of the chain's loops.
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Step 4
Secure the loop closed by wrapping one tail around the chain link two or three times, holding the wire in your bent-nose or chain-nose pliers. Be sure to trap the other end of the wire under the wraps. This requires some dexterity and practice.
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Step 5
Snip the extra wire off. File the rough end with a needle file until it is smooth. Now your charm is fastened securely on the bracelet link, and it won't slip off.
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Step 6
As an easy alternative, use an open jump ring to attach the charm if you like. Open the jump ring with the chain nose pliers, loop it around a bracelet link, then close it again with the pliers. This is much easier, but not nearly as secure. Bracelets in general take a lot of impact and wear, since they're worn near busy hands, so there's a chance you'll lose the charm.
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Step 7
For further tips on how to create and close a perfect loop, see the Resources section for instructions on this basic jewelry-making skill.
