Necklace chains can become a tangled mess when they are not properly stored. If chains have the opportunity to wrap around each other, they will. Even tiny portions of a chain can become tightly knotted. Cable chain and chains with pendants are especially susceptible to tangling. Multiple chains can become intertwined and seem impossible to straighten. Though the knots can become tight, it is possible to untangle them if you take your time and use caution.
Below are useful instructions on how to untangle a necklace chain:
Find a suitable work area. Lay your chain out on a hard and flat surface such as a table. Be sure there is adequate lighting above your work surface. There is nothing worse than trying to do close-up work in a poorly lit area.Disconnect the chain loop. Locate the ends of your chain and unhook the clasp. By unhooking the clasp, you will be able to work the strands loose and pull them through the knotted loops easier.Use a lubricant. Apply a small amount of lubricant, such as baby oil, to the knotted area. The lubricant makes the metal slippery and helps to loosen the bind in the knots. The lubricant will also make your fingers slippery, so use caution when working with the safety pins.Use a household tool. If you have trouble getting the tiniest knot to come loose, use a safety pin to pull the loosest loop of the knot free. A safety pin is small enough to reach areas where your fingers or even fingernails are too large. You may find it helpful to use two safety pins to gently pull against each other. If the knot is still tightly tangled, work more of the lubricant into the knot by wiggling the knot with two safety pins.Finish knot by knot. Gently pull each loosened end of the chain away from the knot. Never pull the chain tightly as it will only further tighten the chain. Use patience when you see progress in freeing the knot. Lay the loosened chain flat occasionally to evaluate your next pull. Continue to untangle the knots with safety pins until the knot is large enough to free with your fingers.Prevent future tangles. Clean and store your necklace in a jewelry box where it hangs free from other chains. Avoid dumping all your chains in a drawer or box to store them.This article has been viewed 11 time(s).
Article Submitted On: March 02, 2011
