Click here to read Part 1 of my Tiny Scale Comparisons blog.

First, I decided to take the Fire Mountain Gems (FMG) tiny scales out for a spin.  The tiny scales sold by FMG are made in Korea.  Since they are so different from the others, I was curious to see what I could do with them. 

I like the range of colors available and the soft satin finish of the FMG scales.  I also like the smaller size – so adorable.  These tiny scales, however, are very thick with very small holes.

The first thing I tried to do was to make basic staggered and linear scale maille weave samples. I was unable to use the usual size jump rings for weaving with these tiny scales.  Due to the smaller hole size, I needed to use jump rings in a thinner gauge with a larger inner diameter, sacrificing jump ring strength.  I used 22g 1/8″ id jump rings.

I could not weave more than a handful of scales in a staggered fashion without the weave locking up on me (above left).  When weaving a basic linear scale chain, I was unable to get past the first 2 scales (above right). 

I was able to successfully construct the Shaggy Scales weave with the FMG tiny scales (above), and I was able to accomplish this with the usual 20g 7/64”id jump rings!

In my opinion, these scales are best suited for use as decorative embellishments, much like you would use a bead or a charm. 

I have successfully knitted and crocheted with the tiny original scales.  I was curious so see if I could knit and crochet with the FMG tiny scales, as the holes are only half the size of the originals. 

I was able to crochet using a very thin steel crochet hook (size 8) and cotton thread (above top).  I even managed to knit a small swatch using cotton thread and 1.5mm sock needles (above bottom). The knitting was very difficult.  The small knit swatch pictured took a couple of hours to make!

Next, I’m going to experiment with the new pink and yellow tiny scales.  I’ll present my findings in my next blog post.