Introduction: Make a Ring Out of Reclaimed Metal
So now that we have reclaimed the metal in my instructable https://www.instructables.com/id/Reclaiming-Usable-Metals/ let's put it to use.
Recently my wife lost her wedding ring while taking out the trash. With Valentines Day coming up I figured it was a good time to replace it.
Step 1: Collect the Following
You are going to need a mandrel and a jewelers ring sizer. You will also need a drill, drill bits, paddle bits, sanding block, a vice and jewelers files.
Step 2: Measuring
I use a micrometer to measure the inner diameter of the ring. That will transfer to a paddle bit.
Step 3: Drilling
Place the ingot in the vice, find the center of the ingot and drill in. After your a way in measure to make sure you are in the ballpark for the inside of the ring. Continue to drill until you have a hole straight through.
Step 4: Double Check
Make sure your ring is drilled so the ring will sit on the finger well. As you can see this was not the case so I remelted the ingot down and started again.
Step 5: Removing the Ring From the Ingot Flash
Mark a rough line to make the desired thickness of the ring. Drill outside this line to created a separation in the metal.
Step 6: Recheck
Recheck the dimensions are correct and then begin to file and shape.
Step 7: Shaping
File and shape the ring until it is in the proper shape, if it gets bent or out of round place it on the mandrel and use a small hammer to knock it back.
Step 8: Finish Up
Polish the ring to a high gloss. The first ring looked so good I actually made a matching one for myself.
Show her or him or them (I don't judge) you truly love them and make your wedding rings.

Participated in the
On a Budget Contest

Participated in the
Rings Challenge

Participated in the
Guerilla Design Contest
9 Comments
8 years ago on Introduction
Nice ring, you could use a dremel instead of a file for less work!
8 years ago on Introduction
one question in step 3 you use a
a paddle bit. i have used these to drill wood will i need a special bit to drill metal ?
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
I was wondering the same thing
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Hello Jackowens-
No I used a standard paddle bit from a wood kit, you will need to anneal the metal to make it softer (unless it is a softer metal like I used) and start slowly. Beyond that I didn't do anything differently. There are carbide tipped bits, they are rather pricey. Just clean and sharpen it afterwards and it will be fine.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Hello Bruce5000-
No I used a standard paddle bit from a wood kit, you will need to anneal the metal to make it softer (unless it is a softer metal like I used) and start slowly. Beyond that I didn't do anything differently. There are carbide tipped bits, they are rather pricey. Just clean and sharpen it afterwards and it will be fine.
8 years ago on Introduction
Thank, ill give the good idea a try
8 years ago on Introduction
what a new approach, great Idea
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Thank you, I know that using a lathe and such would have been easier. I have neither the funds nor the tools, so I use what I have.
8 years ago on Introduction
what a new approach, great Idea