How do I untangle my chains?

How do I untangle my chains?

Image Credit: Halstead

Untangling Chains: Still a Struggle After 30+ Years!

You’d think that after over three decades of making jewelry, I’d be a pro at untangling chains... but nope, it’s still one of those things that trips me up!

Over the years, I’ve tried just about every trick in the book. So today, I’m sharing a few go-to methods for getting those pesky knots out—plus some tips to help prevent them from happening in the first place.

Tackling the Tangle

Start with Unclasping the Chain (if possible)
This gives you more flexibility and makes it easier to pull the chain through as you work.

Find a Flat Surface
Lay your chains out on a clean, flat surface. It helps to see everything clearly and prevents more tangling as you work.

Work on One Chain at a Time
If you’re dealing with a cluster of chains, try to isolate and untangle one first. Often, the rest will start to loosen once that first one is free.

No Long Nails? No Problem
Tweezers can be your best friend here! Use them to gently grip and guide tricky sections of the chain.

Sewing Needles to the Rescue
Sewing needles (or even pins and safety pins) are perfect for getting into those tiny, tight knots. Gently work the tip into the knot and wiggle it around to loosen things up. Once it starts to give, you can pull the chain through the loop to unravel the knot.

Try a Warm Soak

Soaking your chain in warm, soapy water can help loosen knots by lubricating the links. Just be careful not to overdo it—too much soaking can weaken glue or stringing material, especially in delicate pieces.
Note: Avoid soaking pearls! Water can stretch and damage the thread.

You can also try rubbing the knot gently between your fingers to help ease it apart. A needle can help here too—just be gentle.

A Surprising Trick: Windex!

Believe it or not, a little Windex can also work to lubricate those stubborn knots. Spray lightly and use the same method as with soapy water—work the knot loose with a needle or gently rub it between your fingers.

How to Prevent Tangles in the First Place

Here are some storage ideas that have worked really well for me—especially recently!

Gourd Pins, Straws, Jewelry Trees, and Bags

  • Gourd Pins: Slide each chain's end or clasp onto a pin, then either lay them flat in a jewelry pouch or hang the pin from a jewelry tree. You can also put them in ziplock bags with the gourd pin sticking out of the top—just zip around it and lay flat.

  • Straws: Thread the chain through a straw and clasp it on the other side. Great for keeping chains from wrapping around each other. Cut straws to size for shorter necklaces. I personally haven't tried this, but let me know if it works!

  • Jewelry Trees: These are a classic solution for a reason! Hanging necklaces helps keep them separate and tangle-free.

This is definitely a work in progress, and I’m still learning new tricks. But lately, gourd pins have been a game changer for me! 

Got a favorite trick of your own? I’d love to hear it!

I haven't used all these methods, so be sure to email me if they work or you have an even better suggestion!

Here's a handy video from Halstead on untangling chains: 

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