sheeboo2

My daughter Noor, who is 7, wants to make a chain mail tunic. She doesn't want me to make it, although she said I may help. I've been reading up on it for the past few days, and I'm thinking the easiest way to go about it is probably to use pre-made rings, like jump rings for jewelry or maybe even key chain rings.

When we learned that it was often young children who linked the rings together, Noor became even more determined to make the "real" kind. I'd previously suggested we cut some window screens or shelf-liner into a tunic, but she's pretty set on making something as authentic as possible.

Has anyone made chain mail with young kids? Any suggestions? Links? Supply ideas? Ways to set up to make the process easier for small hands?

Thanks!
Brie

sheeboo2

This is what I was thinking of buying if we use pre-made rings (10 gauge, stainless steel):
http://www.worthco.com/rings/pdf/finesplitrings.pdf

They're split rings, like on a key chain. Would that be easier than dealing with two sets of pliers with un-split rings? I think so, but I'm not sure that she's strong enough to splice the rings together.

She wants to make a 4 in 1 European weave, if that helps.

Thanks again,
Brie