I , Kate Fishwick, formed Libra Gear in 2004. I did this as a way share my obsession of chain making with the world. In 2009, Louis Bracht, another St Louis chainmailler, and I joind forces. 2010 marks the addition of a new chain artist, James Adcox. Our duo becomes a trio. Between the 3 of us we have over 30 years of experience weaving chainmail.

I started weaving chainmail in 1995 when Louis taught me my first weaves. I primarily work in stainless steel and aluminum (both plain and anodized). My preference for rings sizes tend to run in the bigger end of the spectrum.  I love the mobius and Byzantine weaves, and mixing them together to form new chains. I use a lot of focal and accent beads in my work. I am also responsible for the day to day running of Libra Gear and the website.

Louis started weaving in the summer of 1993. For many years he worked at Renaissance Faires around the country. He returned to St. Louis in 2009. Louis' metal of choice is stainless steel. Louis has a myriad of chain weaves in his repertoire. He loves different link size and pattern combinations. His chains are perfect for both women and men. He is responsible for coiling the wire and cutting the rings that we use in our pieces.

James also prefers to work in stainless steel. He likes working with heavy chains to create substantial pieces for both men and women.

The chain making process is done with two pairs of pliers, some brute force, and lots of tiny metal rings. Each ring is woven one by one into the pattern and closed. The rings are not soldered, however their placement in the chain makes this unnecessary. Also, we prefer to not use links that are of a size that would compromise the integrity of the material. (Basically, this means that if the links are too large they will stretch or distort and the chain would fall apart.) Libra Gear stands by our work and if a piece ever becomes damaged we will fix it.

Here at Libra Gear we are proud to offer the finest chainmail jewelry and accessories. Our primary metal of choice is stainless steel. We are always happy to take custom orders for chainmail jewelry and accessories. Please contact us using the web form above with your request and we can discuss your ideas for a your custom art piece.

Saint Louis Pagan Picnic

Saturday June 12, 2010 ~ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday June 13, 2010 ~ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Tower Grove Park - South St. Louis City, MO