Hey folk, figured since i had 5 months of no Orn, id make a Chain shirt to keep myself entertained. I am making this post to collect information on how to and cool tips and tricks. and if there are any good places that have cheap rings, and to see if i could buy some used tools.
I recommend The Ring Lord for loose rings and tools. http://theringlord.com/cart/shopDisplayCategories.asp?id=1&cat=Rings
They're located in Canada, so add time for shipping and be sure to read the descriptions under the ring types so you know how heavy and flexible they are.
The SCA Arts and Sciences pages are a good place to start for basic patterns and instructions http://moas.atlantia.sca.org/wsnlinks/index.php?action=displaycat&catid=155
Chainmail is easy to get into and great exercise for the hands. I know a lot of armorers who "knit" mail while watching TV. Good luck! I can't wait to see your finished product.
Ohren is great at making this kind of armor, I would definitely talk to him about it. He made a chain shirt last year and it has lasted and lasted without loosing rings. :)