Viking Knit Jewelry

Viking knit jewelry is really cool. And up to a few days ago, it totally baffled me. Then two things happened; I found a YouTube video and I bought a tutorial. Between the two, I can now do viking knit! And is it ever addicting...

Directions for Viking Knit Chain

The best video I found out on YouTube certainly helped a great deal; for you, it may be all you need! So below are the video directions for viking knit chain. And then below the video is more information and photos of what viking knit looks like from the raw chain through the finished viking knit jewelry.

So YouTube first, then after you're done watching, check out my "before" photos. Here you go!

In addition, here is more information and links to other viking knit resources.

Still need more? Check out my new Introduction to Viking Knit chain tutorial!

Viking Knit Jewelry - Before

Viking Knit Wire Supplies

OK, first know that the viking knit, as it comes off the wrench or dowel, looks kinda sad (at least to me). It definitely does not resemble the gorgeous jewelry I've seen! But there's a little magic involved that takes maybe a minute and results in a lovely chain.

But first, here's what you need to start out:

24 gauge wire
18 gauge wire
Dowel (I use 3/16"). Some people use an allen wrench instead.
Wire cutters
Pliers (round nose and bent nose)
Drawplate

While I don't use it, some people also use a T-pin to create a small path for the wire if the tension gets a little too tight.

In the first photo you see dowels, work in progress and the wire (I also have 16 g wire in the photo, although I didn't use it).

Viking Knit Other Supplies (Pliers, Drawplate, etc.)

In the next photo you can see the wire before I used the drawplate...along with the drawplate and pliers. I added the ruler so you can get an idea of how long the wire was (roughly 15 inches).

The raw knit is reminiscent of wire crochet (well, that's what it looks like to me, anyway).

The viking knit stitch I use is called single knit. Many people prefer to use the variation called double knit, as it makes a more dense weave.

Well, the next post will be more photos taken along the way while creating the jewelry; specifically about the draw plate tool.

Meanwhile, I'll leave you with some Pandora beads, since I will be using them in the finished viking knit jewelry.