SHAPED METAL CHAINS

Metal chains for handbags and shoulder straps
Metal chains for handbags and shoulder straps

SHAPED METAL CHAINS

Chains composed of interlinked units made from metal wire, strip, or die-cast parts. Emphasis is on aesthetic form, decorative effect, and appropriate mechanical strength. They can be positioned as purely decorative, light-duty functional, or medium-duty load-bearing.


Materials

  • Brass : Excellent ductility and polishing/plating response; medium strength with a premium look—ideal for fashion and decorative applications.
  • Stainless Steel : High corrosion resistance and strength

Finishes

  • Electroplating: black nickel, imitation gold, antique brass, black zinc, etc.
  • Coatings: E-coat (electrophoretic), spray paint, powder coat (matte/gloss/color
  • PVD: Ti gold, black titanium, rose gold—durable with stable color.
  • Stainless base finish: Polished, brushed, sandblasted; best salt-spray performance.
  • Aluminum anodizing: Clear, dyed, or hard anodize—preferred where weight is critical.

Common Styles

  • Cable / Link: Basic round or oval links.
  • Curb (flat chain): Links are twisted then flattened for better drape and lay.
  • Figaro: Alternating long and short links.
  • Rolo / Belcher: Thick-walled round links.
  • Box: Square tubes/links joined in sequence; clean, linear look.
  • Snake: Flexible, sleek “snake” chain, common in jewelry.
  • Ball / Bead: Bead chain; can be paired with connectors.
  • Anchor / Mariner: Anchor-style links with a central bar/slot.
  • Paperclip: Elongated rectangular “paperclip” links.
  • Stamped Plate Chain: Stamped plate segments joined together; logos/graphics possible.
  • Cast Link Chain: Die-cast solid sculpted links with a strong 3D presence.

  • Bags/Leather Goods/Apparel:Charms; decorative sections on shoulder straps/handles; puller extensions; waist chains/skirt chains; edge trim lines.
  • Footwear:Side/heel decoration; pull-tab chains; metal accent styling (mind abrasion against leather).
  • Accessories/Jewelry:Pendant chains, eyeglass chains, mask chains, watch bands (typically SUS/brass with high-grade finishes).
  • Outdoor/Sports/Workwear (light to medium duty):ID tags, tool-hook extensions, zipper pullers (SUS316 recommended for outdoor use).
  • Displays/Retail/Stationery:Hang tags, color swatches/sample chaining, display fixtures.
  • Home/Architecture:Curtain pull chains, lighting pull chains, bathroom accessory tags.
  • Pets/Toys (light duty):Nameplate/ornament hanging (avoid chewing hazards; use rounded, deburred edges).