 Step
8: The final step is optional. Wrapping the 21 gauge 1/2
round wire around the center of the ring is not necessary. Using the
14 or 16 gauge wire will make a ring that will hold it's shape without the
wrapped wire. The wire just adds a decorative adornment. To
perform the wrap it is best to open both loops using your bent chain nose
pliers, then wrap the wire and after the wrap is completed, close both
loops in the ring.
Alternative Designs:
Another alternative design is the toe ring. For a toe ring, you make the basic ring design without the bead. All you have to do is adjust the size so that it fits the toe you choose. This is done by changing the placement of peg 2 in your jig. Things to consider: Remember to make your first ring in 18 gauge practice wire. This will allow you to get the length and size correct. When you can easily make the ring in 18 gauge wire, then graduate to 16 gauge wire. Finally, when you are proficient in 16 gauge, then graduate to 14 gauge. This ring will be more solid and permanent when made in 14 gauge wire. We think that you will like this ring project. It is easy to make and provides a way to set a bead into a ring. The design can be easily modified to make toe rings. Because of the way the wire overlaps in the ring, the ring can be easily adjusted fit a smaller finger. |
Here
is one alternative design that incorporates a bead into our simple ring.
This alternative is easy to accomplish and uses 3 inches of 22 or 24 gauge
1/2 hard wire to hold the bead in place. To add the bead to your
ring, start on one side of the ring and wrap one end of the 22 or 24 gauge
1/2 hard wire around the ring about 2 times. Cut the excess wire and
squeeze the cut end flat with your bent chain nose pliers. Leave the
excess wire pointing away from the center of the ring. Now using
your bent chain nose pliers make a right angle bend in this center wire at
the point where you want the center of your bead. For a 6mm bead,
this
would be 3mm above the ring. Thread the bead onto the wire and
get the bead in position in the center of the ring. Now bend coming
out of the bead down so that you are ready to wrap the opposite side of
the bead. Before beginning your wrap, cut the excess wire at
the
point where the wire touches the bottom of the ring. This will allow
the wire to pass through the ring easily to make your second wrap.
At this point you are ready to make your second wrap, thereby
holding the bead in place. Wrap the wire as close to the center of
the ring as possible. Make about 2 wraps and cut the excess wire.
Using your bent chain nose pliers, squeeze the cut end of the wire flat.
This completes your beaded ring design.