Layered Links create more complex shapes or patterns by layering two simple components on top of one another. Use pairs of jump rings to chain pairs of layered links together. For earrings, attach an ear wire to one end, and either a pair of jump rings, or dangle to the other end. Another option is to wire wrap the links together and/or wrap beads onto the frame.
These are my favorite links for layering. The base component is a balanced s-link with different sized eyes (e.g. 3mm and 7mm). Place 2 of these components side by side. Rotate (not flip) one so that it is upside down. When layered on top of one another, they form a Celtic knot design.
Estimate wire length needed for each component as
l = (d1 + d2 + 2t)π
where d1 and d2 are the eye diameters and t is the wire thickness.
Example wire length estimation:
d1 = 3mm, d2 = 7mm, t = 0.81 for 20ga wire
l = (3 + 7 + (2*0.81))3.14159 = ~36.5mm
The base component is an unbalanced scroll shaped s-link with different sized eyes. Any length of wire greater than balanced s-link estimate will be a scroll shaped s-link. The example shown uses 8mm longer wire thanΒ its balanced counterpart.
Each base component forms half of a diamond shape.Β Simply center a 90 degree bend on a piece of straight wire and add an offset eye to each end. Estimate the wire length as 2 diamond sides and 2 eyes.
l = 2(s + π (d+t))
where s is the diamond side length, d is the eye diameter, and t is the wire thickness. Overestimating or underestimating wire length will just result in a slightly larger or smaller diamond shape.
Each base component forms half of a circle shape.Β Center a 180 degree bend around a mandrel sized to the desired circle shape before adding an offset eye to each end. To estimate the wire length, start with a half circle of diameter d1 plus the length needed for the d2 diameter eyes. But you also need to subtract d2 to account for the eyes being off center. The t accounts for the wire thickness.
l = 0.5π (d1+t)) + (2π -1)(d2+t))
Unlike the diamond, the circle shape is more sensitive to wire length. A shorter wire will produce a marquis shape and a longer wire will produce a fat oval. If your first estimated wire length results in a marquis or oval shape, try again with a wire a few mm longer or shorter until you get the exact shape you are looking for. Be aware that hammering the links may also distort the shape. So if you plan to hammer, make sure you include this step when experimenting with wire length.
Bracelet with layered circle links