How To Resize Your Wedding Band Smaller

If your wedding band is too big, there are several ways to make it smaller. You can opt for a permanent fix by taking it to a professional jeweller, who can cut a small part of the band and solder it back together. Alternatively, you can explore temporary solutions, such as using a ring adjuster, which is a small piece of metal that is added to the inner side of the band. This option is also more economical. Another temporary solution is to use a plastic ring adjuster, which is a silicone sleeve or wedge that sits between your finger and the ring.

Using a ring adjuster

There are different types of ring adjusters available. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a ring adjuster with curved arms:

First, find a suitable surface to place your ring and adjuster. Place your ring guard with the arms curved upwards. Put the ring inside the curved arm of the ring guard. Push down on the ring guard so that it takes the shape of the bottom of the ring. Check that the ring shank rests close to the back of the guard.

Next, grab your flat-nose pliers and begin to bend the arm in a smooth circular motion, tightening the ring guard arm around the ring. Ensure that the arm of the guard has gone around the inside of the ring. Squeeze down to ensure a tight fit. Repeat these steps for the other arm of the ring guard.

Finally, check for any rough bits and trim or file the guard to ensure a smooth result.

Another type of ring adjuster is the spring insert. Shaped like a horseshoe, it is a strip of metal that lines the bottom 3/4 of the inside of the band. It springs open slightly to allow the ring to get past the knuckle and then springs back to fit snugly at the base of the finger. This method usually requires a jeweller.

A third option is a fold-over device/sizing bar. This involves soldering a U-shaped bar with a hinge on one side and a latch on the other across the bottom of the ring. To put the ring on, simply open the latch and swing it shut to hold it in place. This method can also be done by a jeweller.

There are also plastic and silicone ring adjusters that can be bought online and easily applied at home.

Using nail polish

Step 1: Clean the Ring

Use rubbing alcohol to clean the ring, especially the interior back and sides. This will help the nail polish adhere better to the ring. If your ring has a stone setting, avoid it while cleaning to prevent any damage.

Step 2: Prepare a Piece of Tape

Cut a piece of painter's tape, about an inch long. This tape will be used to stabilize the ring while applying the nail polish.

Step 3: Apply Nail Polish

Apply a coat of non-toxic, clear nail polish to the inside of the ring, focusing on the back and bringing it slightly up the sides. Avoid applying the polish all the way around, as this will affect the way the ring sits on your finger.

Step 4: Let it Dry

Place the nail polish bottle on the tape and lean the ring against the bottle, keeping it as vertical as possible. This will prevent the nail polish from running off while it dries.

Step 5: Apply Additional Coats

Once the first coat is dry, try on the ring to check the fit. If needed, apply two to three more coats of nail polish, testing the fit between each coat.

Pros and Cons of Using Nail Polish

Alternative Methods

If you are looking for alternative methods to make your wedding band smaller, there are several options available:

• Silicone coils: These are soft rubber coils that you can clip onto your ring and twist to cover the band. They are easy to use and can be found in different sizes.
• Dental floss: Wrap dental floss around the bottom of the ring, creating knots until you achieve a comfortable fit. However, you will need to remove the ring before getting your hands wet to prevent the floss from unraveling.
• Food-grade silicone: Apply a silicone adhesive to the inside of the ring to reduce its size. This method is cheaper than using non-toxic nail polish and is less likely to leak toxins. However, it may not dry completely clear and can feel slightly tacky.
• Ring size adjusters: These are transparent inserts that you twist around the bottom of the ring to make it tighter.
• Metal sizing beads: Small metal beads are welded into the ring by a jeweler to reduce its size. This is a semi-permanent solution, and the beads can be removed without damaging the ring.

Remember, if you are unsure about any of these methods or want a permanent solution, it is best to consult a professional jeweler.

Using dental floss

Firstly, cut a long piece of waxed dental floss, around 35 inches, from the roll. Waxed dental floss is preferable because your body temperature will soften the wax over time, allowing it to adjust to the shape of your finger. This means it won't feel uncomfortable.

Overlap the floss at least twice and join one of the edges together with a lighter. Pass the ring through the floss, holding both ends together so that it dangles like a pendant. Try to pass the burnt edge of the floss through the other edge, creating a loop, and make a knot.

Repeat the process of making knots until the floss covers a significant portion of the back of the ring. Remember to try the ring on at intervals to see when it fits. When you are happy with the size, cut off the excess floss with scissors or burn it off with a lighter.

This method is only temporary, and you will need to remove your ring before getting your hands wet, as the floss will get wet and irritate your finger.

Using monofilament fishing line

To resize your ring using monofilament fishing line, you will need a piece of line that is at least 40 centimetres long. Start by running the line through your ring, leaving one end longer than the other. The shorter end should still be long enough to tie both ends together at the end.

Hold the longer end in place and wrap the shorter end around the ring's shank in loops. Keep the loops close together with your finger to ensure they are uniformly arranged. After forming each loop, tighten the line so that they take on the shape of the ring's shank.

Once you have finished making loops, thread each end of the line through them. After threading the first end, pull it slowly to tighten it, but be careful not to pull it too tight so that the other end can still pass through easily.

When you have threaded both ends through the loops, pull them to tighten the end of the line, holding everything together firmly. Make sure to keep all the loops aligned. Finally, cut off any excess fishing line.

If your ring still doesn't fit, you can always try using a thicker fishing line. This method is simple, quick, and easily reversible, making it a convenient way to resize your wedding band at home.

Using food-grade silicone

• Clean the inside of your ring with rubbing alcohol.
• Gather your materials: a small applicator (like a popsicle stick), transparent food-grade silicone adhesive, and a paper towel.
• Apply the silicone adhesive to the inside of the ring opposite the setting, and also apply a small portion to the sides.
• Smooth the adhesive over the band of the ring to ensure an even application. Use a paper towel to gently wipe off any adhesive that gets on the outer layer of the ring.
• Leave the silicone to cure and dry. The length of time will be specified on the product's packaging.
• Wait until the silicone is fully cured. It should feel dry and be transparent. If you start wearing the ring before this, the silicone coating might come off after a few days.
• If the ring still doesn't fit, you can always apply an extra coat of the adhesive.

This method is a temporary solution, and the silicone can be easily peeled off if you don't like the result.

Frequently asked questions