Hello

**ani_b** · 13-01-2010, 09:49 PM

Hi All,

I've only recently started making jewellery after someone bought a jewellery making set for my daughter

Now after finding pictures on Flickr, I'm totally addicted to chain maille and can't wait for a new set of rings to come through the post so I can start my next piece.
After a lot of ifing and buting, I finally decided to buy a tumbler with my Christmas money and now everything's lovely and shiny!

I love it!

**mizgeorge** · 13-01-2010, 10:17 PM

Hi Ani,
You need to get yourself a jewellers saw and start cutting your own rings

No more waiting for the postman that way!

**ani_b** · 14-01-2010, 07:31 AM

Thanks George, I did get a saw for Christmas but we're having a few issues regarding holding the coil while sawing. Am just looking at clamps or is there an easier way?

**lynnm** · 14-01-2010, 07:40 AM

Welcome to the forum. I cut mine against my peg, makes it lots easier

**ani_b** · 14-01-2010, 08:10 AM

Hi Lynnm and thank you.
Have you cut a v into your peg and then wedge the coil into that or just hold them in place on the peg while sawing?

**Petal** · 14-01-2010, 08:10 AM

Originally Posted by ani_b

Thanks George, I did get a saw for Christmas but we're having a few issues regarding holding the coil while sawing. Am just looking at clamps or is there an easier way?

I'm sure someone, or George will tell you how to saw coils - there's definitely an easier way to do it.

to the forum Ani. This forum is a real time stealer, so beware its addictive!

**mizgeorge** · 14-01-2010, 08:15 AM

For large quantities of rings, I actually find it easiest to cut them with the coil held between my thumb and index finger. It feels slightly odd at first not to be sawing 'down', but in the end is actually more efficient - and far fewer dropped rings!

I'd never clamp coils, too much risk of distortion. You can use a wooden or bamboo mandrel (knitting needle) and leave that inside the coil if you find it easier.

Some people tape their coils - I think it makes a sticky mess, and again, the rings can distort when you remove the tape if you're using thinner wire gauges.

**MuranoSilver** · 14-01-2010, 08:19 AM

I only do a few at a time and saw from the inside
(you thread your saw through the coil, then tension it)
I had to learn this way as I kept slicing my fingers

nic xx