I was inspired to make this piece by the beautiful Celtic and Viking brooches. The simple mechanics of this style of fastening makes it suitable to use as a brooch or scarf, kilt or hat pin. The last image in the sequence shows you how to wear it.
I have combined my hammered Penannular brooch design with strong, robust Viking knit chain. Nearly 1,300 years ago, Vikings used long pieces of silver and gold wire to weave ropes. These woven wire ropes were then stretched and made into jewellery for powerful Viking leaders. This wire weaving is called Viking knit (or trichinopoly chain).
I have made the brooch with very thick copper wire to form the shape, which I have hand forged and then hammered with a lightly textured effect, adding an interesting detail and also making the structure very strong. Viking knit chain covers part of this frame, creating intricate detail. The chain is finished with 2 handmade wire cones, which I have shaped to match the curve of the frame.
The pin is made from thick 1.6mm wire, which I have filed and sanded into a point. I have created a layered effect on the hinge of the pin, by hammering the end, so that it splays outwards, then rolling it on itself, so that it overlaps. The thick wire of the pin makes this brooch unsuitable for delicate fabrics. It is perfect for chunky knits!
The brooch measures 1 2/3' across and 1 7/8' tall and the pin is 2 1/4' long.