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Build your Permanent Jewelry Business with tools, training, and everything you need to succeed
Build your Permanent Jewelry Business with tools, training, and everything you need to succeed
Buying Permanent Jewelry Chain by the Inch vs. by the Foot

Buying Permanent Jewelry Chain by the Inch vs. by the Foot

When ordering chain for your permanent jewelry studio, you’ll often see two buying options: by the inch and by the foot. Both have advantages depending on your goals, whether you’re testing new chain styles, managing event inventory, or buying in bulk to save on cost. Understanding when to buy by the inch versus by the foot helps you stay efficient, minimize waste, and protect your margins.

Buying Chain by the Inch Allows for Flexibility and Precision

Buying chain by the inch is perfect for artists who need exact amounts for small projects, custom orders, or training purposes. It allows you to test new styles without committing to an entire spool.

Best for:

  • Studios trying new chain designs

  • Beginners who need limited material

  • Pop-up artists or mobile welders with small setups

Advantages:

  • No leftover waste

  • Easier cost control for one-off clients

  • Great for mixing metals and styles

Considerations:

  • Higher cost per inch compared to bulk pricing

  • Can lead to more frequent reorders

Top Picks Sold by the Inch:

 

Three chains on a light gray background. The chains are Silver, Rose Gold, and Yellow Gold and have a long dapped link between three short links.

 

Buying Chain by the Foot Provides Higher Value and Efficiency

For studios that serve multiple clients or host frequent events, buying by the foot delivers major advantages in cost and convenience. One foot equals twelve inches, so a 15 foot spool can create 15 to 25 bracelets or anklets depending on length.

Best for:

  • Busy studios and permanent jewelry businesses

  • Artists offering multiple sizes and metals

  • Wholesalers preparing for high-volume events

Advantages:

  • Lower cost per inch

  • Continuous lengths reduce welding breaks

  • Easy to cut custom sizes on demand

Considerations:

  • Requires organized storage to prevent tangling

  • Higher upfront cost for large quantities

Top Picks Sold by the Foot:

Four different chain material types all the same style of chain. The different materials are Sterling Silver, White Gold filled, gold filled, and rose gold filled.

 

Silver chain with a reflective diamond disk on a gray background

 

Four jewelry chains in different finishes, silver, gold, and rose gold, laid out flat.

 

How to Choose Between the Two

When deciding between inch and foot ordering, consider your studio size, sales volume, and event type.

Situation Recommended Option
Testing new chains or metals By the inch
Regular client flow By the foot
Traveling to pop-ups or expos By the inch
Large studio with recurring events By the foot

 

 

Tips for Managing Chain Inventory

Related reading: The Best Chains for Permanent Jewelry in 2025

 

If you found this article helpful be sure to check out the following for tips and tricks!

 

Order Certified Chain Your Way

Whether you prefer buying by the inch for flexibility or by the foot for efficiency, Sunstone’s Certified Permanent Jewelry Chain Collection offers both options in over 40 styles and finishes!

Browse all certified chain options here:
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/collections/permanent-jewelry-chain

 

Related Reading:

Artículo siguiente The Key to Building a Permanent Jewelry Business: Why PJ Pro Stands Out

Have any questions?

Reach out to speak with a Permanent Jewelry Expert by calling +1 801-658-0015 or by filling out the contact form linked here.

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