Instructions for Elf Weave Chain Maille

Standard chain maille is made differently from elf weave chain maille.

Chain maille, a form of medieval armor, is made by interlocking metal rings together. In modern times, chain maille is generally used for jewelry olight pieces worn at renaissance or medieval fairs. The elf weave style interlocks four rings together with each addition, making it an ideal weave for jewelry or other small projects. Chain maille gets heavy fast, so pick a lightweight ring for larger pieces. Smaller pieces, such as jewelry, work well with light or heavy rings.

Things You'll Need

• Chain maille rings in desired size and weight
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Close two rings with the pliers. Attach a third ring, passing the ring through the two closed rings. Close the third ring with the pliers.

2. Attach a fourth ring around the same two rings and close the ring with pliers. Lay the piece out with the third ring at the top and the fourth ring at the bottom. This completes the set up for the start of the piece.

3. Attach two rings. These two rings will enclose two other rings. The first ring will attach around one of the center two rings and the third ring and the other ring will attach around the other center ring and the fourth ring. Close the two new rings with pliers.

4. Attach one ring. This ring will pass through the two previous rings. Close the ring with pliers.

5. Repeat Step 3. Each of the two new rings will pass through two rings, one from Step 3 and one from Step 4.

6. Flip the piece over. Take care when flipping to keep the rings straight and even.

7. Add one new ring through two existing rings as established. Close with pliers.

8. Add two new rings through two existing rings as established, incorporating the last ring into the two new rings. Close with pliers.

9. Repeat Steps 7 and 8 until piece is as large and long as desired.

References

• Maille Artisans International League: Elf Weave

Resources

• The Ring Lord: Rings