There are many ways to finish a bracelet or necklace with jump rings. Here are a few tips to make your pieces more secure and longer-lasting while keeping a clean, finished look.

Use Oval Jump Rings: I cannot tell you how many times I have had to repair a bracelet or necklace because the wire has pulled through a circular jump ring. An easy way to combat this problem is to use oval jump rings instead of circular when finishing your jewelry. The wire naturally rests in the crook of the jump ring where there is no split, unlike the round rings where the point at which your wire will rest is arbitrary and will most likely pull through at some point.

Use Two Rings: If you would like to use round rings but are unsure of the security you can use two jump rings instead of one. This will diminish the chance that your strand will pull through, and it adds an interesting aesthetic!

Widen your Chain Link: If you are using a super-fine chain and are having trouble getting your thick jump ring through you can widen the last link of your chain with an awl. Simply put the awl through the last link and work back and forth until it opens to the desired degree. This generally works if you are using chain with an oval link, rather than round.

Use a Link for a Ring: If you are short on soldered jump rings you can always cut a link of chain to use instead. This works just as great as a normal jump ring and you can feel fabulous for your ingenuity!