What is Chain Maille?
Chain Maille (also known as chainmail or maille), is a flexible product composed of small interlocking metal rings or loops of chain. Maille was historically used as armor from the Roman era until the late middle ages, in both eastern and western cultures. It is used today for industrial armor, combat reenactment, jewelry, fashion design, and sculpture. The term ‘maille’ comes from the French word for wire, although most sources claim it to be an invention of the Celts. Today, many people are discovering maille’s potential for use in jewelry and clothing, as well as sculpture and functional pieces. Everything from inlaid chessboards and chandeliers to bikinis and bullwhips have been made from this versatile material. The chain maille you see on this site was hand-crafted completely by the artist from a spool of wire to the finished product.
