I am finding that I love chain way more than beading wire. I think it's classier, and I like to minimize the use of beads to just a few delicate, "pretty" ones. Anyone else like chain? And if so, where do you buy yours?

The more I look at chain, the more I like it.  I especially love the really big links.  I want to make a long necklace with a big link chain and, I don't know, maybe crystals.  I've just started brainstorming.  Now that I've been noticing, most beading places sell chain.  Just go to your favorite place and I'm sure they'll have chain.

Laura Z.

I am a senior and I teach seniors at our senior centers. Both I and my students love working with Michael's chains which is what we can afford. I've taught them how to make wrapped loops so they can use beads intermixed with the chains. There are so many ways to combine the chains and beads to have completely different looks. I like to make tassels and swags with the smaller chains. I usually use at least two different chains and sometimes three chains in one design. I don't throw away the odd pieces of chains because they can be used in my beaded designs.

I haven't used too much precious metal chains because they are too expensive.

Long chains with large links are very popular additions to the models wardrobes on QVC and HSN which are very good places to get ideas for jewelry design.  

I love chain!

But it's one of those products I like to see in person. Can't get the feel for it when looking online. Most my LBS carry some chain. I prefer sterling, but it's really getting expensive.

There is a bead store that had a booth at a recent show I went to that had more chain than I've ever seen in one place. But chain wasn't on my list or in my budget for that day's show. I'd like to check out their selection again in person, but haven't made the trip because it's over an hour drive.

HI!  Read your question... I sell sterling silver chain for $1 a gram, satisfaction guaranteed... if you would like to see the dozen or so I have available, from 1.6 grams a foot to 10 grams a foot, with full link measurements, please let me know.  I won't bug you if I don't hear from you, though... just thought you'd like to know. It's a great price w/no minimum purchase, postage a flat $1.50; many references available from beads and more yahoo group members (1,300!) a yahoo based bulk bead buying group!  hth Joyce in Tacoma jbintacmom at aol.com

Yes, I love chain! And I do wear jewelry made from chain. I agree with you that chain supports large beads better than wire. I switched to wire for most items that I sell because my clientèle prefers it. Some of my latest earrings combine chain and wire and have received favorable reviews. If you're making jewelry for yourself, make what suits you. Fads are for people who can't think for themselves.