DIY Stretchy Helmet Chainmail Bracelet Tutorial

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Are you ready to craft a unique and stylish accessory that's both eye-catching and surprisingly comfortable? Then prepare to dive into the fascinating world of DIY jewelry making with this comprehensive tutorial on creating a stretchy helmet chainmail bracelet! This ancient technique, traditionally used for armor, lends itself beautifully to modern jewelry design, resulting in a piece that's both durable and remarkably flexible. Forget flimsy bangles – this bracelet boasts a sturdy, interwoven structure that can withstand daily wear without losing its shape or sparkle. The satisfying process of connecting each tiny ring is incredibly meditative, and the final result is a truly rewarding accomplishment.

This tutorial will guide you through each step, from gathering the necessary materials to creating the secure, stretchy closure. We'll cover everything from choosing the right gauge of jump rings to mastering the basic chainmail weaving techniques needed to build your bracelet, ensuring even beginners can achieve a professional-looking finish. Let's get started and unlock the secrets to making your very own stunning, stretchy helmet chainmail bracelet!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Rubber O-rings (12mm, 30 total)
  • 6mm 20 gauge jump rings
  • 10mm 18 gauge jump rings
  • Chain nose pliers
  • Bent chain nose pliers
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use blunt-ended jump rings to avoid injury. Sharp ends can easily snag skin and cause cuts.
  • Be mindful of the bracelet's tightness. Ensure it's snug but not so tight it restricts blood flow. Remove it immediately if you experience discomfort.
  • Supervise children carefully if they are assisting with this project, particularly when using tools like pliers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create the First Unit

    • Open a 6mm jump ring using bent nose pliers.
    • Attach four rubber O-rings to the open jump ring.
    • Close the jump ring tightly.
    Close the jump ring tightly.Close the jump ring tightly.Close the jump ring tightly.
    Create the First Unit

  2. Add a Second Unit

    • Open another 6mm jump ring and attach it to one end of the first unit.
    • Add two more rubber O-rings to this jump ring.
    • Close the second jump ring.
    Close the second jump ring.Close the second jump ring.Close the second jump ring.
    Add a Second Unit

  3. Connect the First Two Units

    • Open a 10mm jump ring and connect it to the two units created so far.
    • Close the 10mm jump ring, ensuring it's flush and secure.
    Close the 10mm jump ring, ensuring it's flush and secure.Close the 10mm jump ring, ensuring it's flush and secure.
    Connect the First Two Units

  4. Repeat to Achieve Desired Length

    • Repeat steps 4-8 to add more links, until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Repeat steps 4-8 to add more links, until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Repeat to Achieve Desired Length

  5. Close the Bracelet Circle

    • For the final link, attach a 6mm jump ring to the last unit and connect the other end to complete the circle.
    For the final link, attach a 6mm jump ring to the last unit and connect the other end to complete the circle.
    Close the Bracelet Circle

  6. Secure Inner Loops

    • Use two 10mm jump rings to close the two remaining inner loops by sliding them through the sandwich area.
    • Close the 10mm jump rings, completing the bracelet.
    Close the 10mm jump rings, completing the bracelet.
    Secure Inner Loops

Read more: DIY Tiered Tassel Earrings: A Quick & Easy Jewelry Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a bent chain nose plier for easier manipulation of jump rings, especially when working with multiple rubber o-rings.
  • Three packs of rubber o-rings (30 total) create a bracelet approximately 6.5-7 inches in circumference. Adjust the number of packs for desired size.
  • The rubber o-rings can be a bit tight initially, but they will loosen once the jump rings are closed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Ring Size or Gauge

Reason: Using rings of inconsistent sizes makes the bracelet look bumpy and unprofessional, and can affect its flexibility.
Solution: Carefully measure and select rings of the same size and gauge before starting.

2. Incorrect Joining Technique

Reason: Improperly closing the rings can lead to weak links, gaps, or even the bracelet falling apart.
Solution: Ensure each ring is fully closed using the correct pliers and technique, double-checking your work.

3. Insufficient Ring Count for Desired Length

Reason: Underestimating the number of rings needed results in a bracelet that is too short or doesn't allow for the desired stretch.
Solution: Accurately calculate the required number of rings based on your wrist size and desired bracelet length, adding extra for stretch.

FAQs

What type of jump rings should I use for my stretchy helmet chainmail bracelet?
For a stretchy bracelet, it's best to use round jump rings made of soft, pliable metal like copper or aluminum. Avoid using overly hard or stiff metals, as they won't allow the bracelet to stretch and conform to your wrist comfortably. A gauge of 20-22 is a good starting point, but you can experiment to find your preferred size and flexibility.