[%-)]
I hope this isn't a stupid question - I've put off asking it because it sounds so basic that I really should know the answer. But I don't. When you use open jumprings, do you solder them? If so, what's the best way. If not, how do you keep them from opening if given a sharp tug? The kind of tug a fiesty 8 month old granddaughter gives? (So far, luckily, just on necklaces and not earrings!) Thanks for humoring a beginner beader.

First of all, smaller, thicker jump rings are stronger than larger, thinner ones - simple physics at work here! If small, thick jump rings aren't strong enough then you can either solder, use split rings or Snapeeze rings.

If you choose to solder, you'll have to consider the metal you're using and choose your soldering tools and equipment accordingly. Base metal has a nasty habit of reducing to a little molten puddle when you take a torch to it. If you're working with sterling silver, you'll need approximately $75 of equipment for a very basic set up that includes a small butane torch. This is what I have and it's plenty good enough for small soldering jobs, such as jump rings. If you get into playing with fire though (and it IS a lot of fun!), you'll want/need a more powerful torch. Here's a link to a great "how to" video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYVl35kvKHs.

Split rings are like a keyring - http://www.worthco.com/rings/spltring.html (I've never ordered from this co, this link just shows a pretty good picture of a split ring). Personally, I don't like them - I think it makes jewellery look amateurish and "home made" but hey, that's just my opinion for what that's worth!

Your third option is Snapeez rings. I've never used them but others on this board have (if you try doing an advanced search and set the date back at least a year, you'll find more info.). Snapeez are available at http://www.viamurano.com/shopping/ (BTW, I couldn't get the Snapeez "how to" video to work????)

Oops, I forgot to mention solder core jump rings (available at http://www.spiderchain.com/misc/specialty.shtml and probably other sources too). I'm not sure of exactly how to use these - obviously they need heat of some kind to make the solder flow. I know of someone who uses these rings with a Hot Spot machine, available from Rio Grande, with great success. This is a pretty spendy option though, which is probably why it didn't immediately come to mind!

Llisa,
Thanks! This is what I thought and I surely didn't want to get into the expense of soldering at this point. As you suggested, I will try the smaller, sturdier rings. I share your feelings about the split rings. I have a small amount of them, tried them and then pulled it all apart because it didn't give a good finished appearance. Someday I'll find a good use for them.

I did go to the snapeeze site - this is definitely something I will also try - just might order some today! I was able to get the video to work and it does a pretty good job of illustrating the proper methods.

I'm fairly new to jewelry making and so far have learned most everything I know from using the internet and free tutorials and books as there aren't classes close by. I just couldn't find a good concise answer to my question until you! Thanks!

You can also double up on the jump rings. And if they are properly conditioned, they should really be very strong. Conditioning involves opening and closing a couple of times, and then hardening with a mallet. The amount of conditioning will be different for dead soft versus half hard wire.