Transform a Chain into a Chic Tie Cord Necklace in Simple Steps

Transforming a Chain into an Elegant Tie Cord Necklace

Tie cord necklaces, known as "gravatinha" in Portuguese, are a versatile and stylish jewelry piece that can complement both casual everyday outfits and dressier ensembles. Often made of silver or delicate chains, they have a simple yet chic aesthetic. If you have a plain chain laying around that you rarely wear, with a few easy steps and basic materials, you can give it new life by turning it into a tie cord necklace.

Selecting the Right Chain

When choosing a chain to transform into a gravatinha necklace, opt for something lightweight and not too bulky or thick. Chains made of silver 925 or other precious metals tend to work better than costume jewelry chains, as they will last longer and hold up better over time.

The most common chain styles used for tie cord necklaces are:

• Cable chain
• Figaro chain
• Snake chain
• Curb chain

Aim for chain lengths between 16 to 20 inches - this allows for a double wrap that sits elegantly around the neck. Make sure to avoid chains with very large or elaborate pendants, as simpler and daintier pendants integrate more seamlessly into the tie cord design.

Gather Your Supplies

Transforming a basic chain into a gravatinha necklace only requires a few basic jewelry making supplies:

• Chain
• Clasps for necklaces
• Jump rings
• Round nose pliers
• Flat nose pliers
• Wire cutters

You'll need a sturdy lobster claw clasp or another secure clasp like a toggle clasp or hook closure. Make sure to select a clasp that matches the metal of your chain. You'll also need some jump rings to attach the clasp - opt for soldered jump rings as they are less likely to come apart.

Removing the Original Clasp

Start by removing the existing clasp from your chain using your wire cutters. Cut at least an inch or two away from the original clasp so you have plenty of chain links to work with to attach your new clasp and create the wrap effect.

Make sure to cut both sides of the chain evenly. Place the chain flat on a table or surface when cutting it so you can gauge the lengths on both sides.

Attaching the New Clasp

Once you've removed the old clasp, it's time to attach your new one using jump rings. Use the round nose jewelry pliers to gently pry open a jump ring just enough to slide the last link of one end of the chain onto it. Then close the jump ring securely with the pliers again.

Repeat on the other side of the chain with another jump ring and the other side of your clasp. The jump rings attach the chain to the clasping mechanism. Make sure both jump rings are firmly closed so the chain won't slip off the new clasp you've added.

Creating the Wrapped Effect

With your chain securely fastened to the new clasp, it's time to adjust the look and create that signature wrap style gravatinha necklaces are known for. This step helps give the necklace some dimension and visual interest.

Start by spreading the chain out horizontally and loosely wrapping it around two fingers held vertically. Wrap it about 1.5 to 2 times depending on preference and adjust so both sides are even. Remove fingers and adjust the wraps slightly so they sit neatly together.

For extra hold, at each end of the wrapped sections you can take the pliers and gently squeeze the links closed a bit tighter. This helps the wrap keep its shape. Be careful not to squeeze too hard or you may distort links.

Customizing Your Gravatlinha Necklace

One of the great aspects of DIY-ing jewelry pieces is having the freedom to customize them according to your personal style. After transforming a basic chain into a tie cord necklace, consider embellishing it to make it truly unique.

Adding Charms

Charms are an easy way to inject more personality into your gravatinha necklace. Look for small, dainty charms that won't feel too bulky or weigh down the delicate chain.

Great options include charms in themes like nature, celestial, boho, initials, hearts, crowns, and more. You can slide charms directly onto any open links in the chain or attach them using jump rings if needed. Arrange and position them in a way you find aesthetically pleasing.

Playing with Pendants

Swapping out or adding pendants is another simple customization for your new tie cord necklace. You can leave the original pendant on your chain for a subtle accent, remove it entirely for a streamlined look, or add different pendants for variety.

Stick to small, lightweight pendants comparable in size and scale to the necklace chain. Precious stones, pearls, coins, and simple shapes make good pendent choices that won’t overwhelm the necklace.

Layering Chains

For an on-trend layered look, combine two or three delicate chains, ribbons, or cords together before wrapping them. Styling your tie cord necklace with other jewelry pieces adds visual interest.

Select chain lengths that are roughly similar and arrange chains with varying shapes, metals, and embellishments. Wrap them evenly together following the same technique used on a single chain. The result is a multi-chain gravatinha with lots of texture and intrigue.

Get creative and have fun coming up with your own embellishments and unique styling for your transformed chain necklace. Part of the beauty of DIY jewelry making is being able to put your personal stamp on an item.

Caring for Your Gravatlinha Necklace

Like any delicate jewelry piece featuring fine or precious metals and embellishments, it's important to care for your handcrafted gravatinha properly so it retains its shine and structure over time without damage.

Proper Storage

When not wearing your tie cord necklace, keep it safely stored rather than letting it sit out. Place it inside a dedicated jewelry box, catchall tray, or even an envelope or pouch. This protects the links from getting tangled up with other jewelry items or general wear and tear.

Cleaning Considerations

Over time, skin oils, makeup residue, dirt, dust, and other grime can build up on jewelry. Give your gravatinha an occasional gentle cleaning by dipping a soft cloth into warm water mixed with a small amount of mild dish soap. Gently rub the chain and charms to lift dirt. Rinse with clean water and pat the necklace dry.

For a deeper clean, bring it to your local jeweler and have them professionally ultrasonically clean it. This removes built up gunk from even the small crevices in the chain links.

Avoiding Damage

When wearing or storing your necklace, be cautious of situations that could damage the delicate materials. Try not to let your tie cord necklace come into too much contact with water, heat, soaps and perfumes that could be abrasive. When necessary, take it off to avoid hard blows that could warp the shape.

By transforming a simple chain into a beautiful gravatinha necklace and caring for it properly over time, you'll be able to enjoy a custom jewelry piece that reflects your unique style for years to come!

FAQs

What type of chain is best to use?

Opt for delicate chains made of materials like silver, gold, or brass. Avoid anything too bulky, thick, or made with cheap metals. Ideal chain styles include cable link, Figaro, snake, or curb chains. Standard jewelry chains you find at most craft stores typically work well.

Do I need special tools?

No, you likely already have the basic jewelry making tools needed - like round nose pliers, flat nose pliers, wire cutters and jump rings. If not, they are inexpensive and readily available at local craft shops or online.

How do I wrap the chain neatly?

Spread the chain out horizontally and wrap loosely around two fingers vertically about 1.5 to 2 times. Adjust so the wrap sits evenly on both sides before removing fingers. Use pliers to gently squeeze ends of the wrap closed tighter if desired.

Can I add my own charms or embellishments?

Absolutely! Personalize your gravatinha necklace by adding small charms, swapping or removing pendants, or layering multiple delicate chains together. Get creative with different shapes, textures and lightweight adornments that reflect your individual style.