Viking Knitting

This class is now available, streamed or as a DVD, on Taproot Video! www.taprootvideo.com

Also called “Viking Chain Netting” and “Viking Weaving”, this jewelry technique is done with neither knitting needles nor a loom, but instead with thin wire on a stick! Examples of these chains have been found in various archeological sites in Scandinavia dating back to the 8th century A.D.  This technique can be used to make necklaces, bracelets and earrings. The chain looks exquisite and complicated, but the process is simple and straightforward. This is a great portable handicraft you can do on the bus or plane.

This is one of my favorite classes, because no matter the skill level, this always seems to produce a lovely chain. First the "braid" is formed on a dowel before it's lengthened and evened out by pulling it through successively smaller holes in a "draw plate". That's when the oohs and ahhs come from the students!