Chinese jacks
Today’s post is a random memory and a bit of musing about Chinese jacks. So, let’s go!
Chinese jacks, for those who don’t know, are these awesome little plastic ring things that kids would clip together in the 1980s for playing, well, Chinese jacks. But we’d also use them for Hopscotch markers and necklaces or other bits of jewellery.
They were fun and bright and silly. All of the sorts of things I love. We had loads and loads of them when we were kids. Some were pastel, others were bright, and others were neon. There were even translucent ones. I remember sitting there clipping them together in little sets, or stringing them together as chains and bracelets. But what I don’t remember is what happened to them. Where did they all go? Have they been thrown away after all of this time, or are they somewhere at my folks’ house, stashed away in a box?
I guess that’s it. I don’t really have much more to say about them, I just thought that I’d let you know I was thinking about them.
Of course, this all reminds me of those plastic charm necklaces we had back in the 80s, too. Yeah, they were, like, so awesome. Like, you know, totally radical, dude.
I wonder what today’s kids will reflect on when they’re my age…
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I haven’t thought of Chinese Jacks for years. Neither have I seen any, even though I’ve found some other rather interesting things while going through various boxes upstairs. I’ll need to dig into the “attic” for some more boxes. Maybe some are stored further back.
Well, if you do find any, I don’t need them. I’m sure the grandkids might like them–or the dump. If, however, you run across any Garbage Pail Kids trading cards, I’ll take those because they made me laugh.
Hi Frances – I was “googling” chinese jacks and stumbled upon your page… the video happens to be a review of my product. I too had fond memories of this game/accessory and just had to bring them back! Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and thank you for sharing!
Sarah
Yay! I was so excited to see that someone was still manufacturing them. I’ve not seen them in shops in ages (since the 80s, I suppose) but I really do have such fond memories of them. I hope that the resurgence of ‘all things ’80s Retro’ is a boon to sales!
did you find out where you can buy the jacks at ?
I’ve yet to find a decent place to buy them. Every time I look online, they seem to be extremely expensive — if I can find any at all.
Where can I buy these from? Back when I was in elementary (30yrs ago) we used to have the ones with a white stripe in the middle. I have been searching all over and can’t seem to find them anywhere or anything close to it. Please tell me where I can order from. Thank you
I’ve not found them anywhere reliable. If I search on Google, I’ll sometimes find one result on ebay, but they are far too expensive for what they are. Such a shame, because it was a fun game.
How and where can I get my hands on the jacks , love to teach my grandchildren how to play , love them
They seem to be difficult to find. I’ve not had any luck online, but I might try looking in brick-and-mortar stores. If I have any luck, I will post an update.
I love how this is growing into the makings of a community of people who loved playing Chinese jacks as kids and are searching to build a new collection of jacks. 🙌🏼
Now, who remembers Chinese jumprope and Chinese hopscotch 🙌🏼👍🏼😁
For how many people seem to love them and remember them, I am surprised they can’t be found easily. I feel there is a missing money-making opportunity here!