I've recently started playing around with wires for the past one week for this technique called Viking Knit.
Viking Knitting or Viking Weave is a type of wire weaving that dates back to the 8th Century and is one of the oldest known forms of knitting. The woven structure consists of interconnected loops so that it resembles knitted fabric, hence the name. The weaving is made around a base, called a mandrel, and the resulting woven tube is (usually) pulled through a drawplate which stretches the chain, condense the stitches, and makes the chain flexible.
This technique is perfect for making a cord for bracelets, necklaces and even earrings.
For this learning purpose, I've used the normal wire in thinner gauge (this one is about 22g I think and it's quite hard) from the hardware store so that it will not be wasted if mistakes were made. Actual wire gauge to be used should be 24 or 26g.
The tutorial I got was from Jan Raven at JewelryLessons.com
Loops are created around a base, the mandrel. I've used the Allen Key (or Hex wrench). I've made this in single weave (there's also double weave) and as I don't have a clamp, I've used both hands; one to hold the mandrel and the other to control the wire.
6 feet of wire can get you about 3 inches in length only, after which you have
to add a new piece of wire to continue with the weaving to the length you require. Very tight and rigid before the stretching.
The drawplate (I've used a small wooden plank) with various sizes of holes drilled through it.
The chain is then pulled through the desired holes which will stretch them further.
The above picture shows the stretched chain, which is about 4" to 5" in length. It is now very flexible. Very short but not enough to make a cord for bracelet and necklace. Therefore, this Viking Knitting technique takes time and lots of wire. Actual pieces would be done with artistic wire, of course.
Lastly, am satisfied with the tutorial as well as the quality of my hand work.
Now I am off to do some more knitting/weaving and will be back to share
some pictures of my prototypes based on this technique.
Have a nice weekend, folks ! =)
