Medieval Living

One of the features of Medieval times was the use of chainmail armor. Its one of those curious developments, created during a time when military battles were almost exclusively hand-to-hand, and so the need for good armor was essential. I started playing around making chainmail back oh . . . ten years or more. Made quite a few different items, from simple coifs to the more complicated hauberk and even a pair of gloves or two. I even played with some less-than-Medieval chainmail jewelry. Probably one of the best know sources for information and materials related to Medieval chainmail would be The Ring Lord out of Saskatoon, Canada. He has been providing chainmail enthusiasts with supplies and tutorials since the mid 90′s. If you have any interest in how to build chainmail armor or anything else, he’s a wonderful resource.
In January this year, I will be offering some classes (primarily for homeschool kiddos, but don’t mind teaching others) on basic chainmail techniques and materials. If you’re interesed, and if you’re in the general Albuquerque area, let me know! The picture is a chainmail coif, made of 12 gauge galvanized steel wire formed into 3/8″ rings. The pattern is the traditional European 4 in 1. The dashing young model is #1 son.