Resizing Wedding Rings: Making Them Smaller Is Possible

So, your wedding ring is too big? Don't panic! There are several methods to make your ring smaller without resizing. If you need a quick fix, you can try a temporary solution such as using a ring adjuster, nail polish, dental floss, or fishing line. These methods are easy to do at home and don't require any special tools or skills. However, if you're looking for a more permanent solution, it's best to take your ring to a professional jeweller, who can resize it for you.

Using a ring adjuster

There are two main types of ring adjusters: plastic and metal. Both have their pros and cons.

Plastic Ring Adjusters

Plastic ring adjusters are widely available and can be bought online. They are cheap, quick, and easy to use. They are usually made of silicone and are clear, but you can also find them in different colours, such as yellow gold and rose gold. They are perfect for those who are prone to ring size fluctuations or have bought the wrong size.

However, they may not last forever as the silicone can wear away over time. They may also not be easy to clean, and some designs may negatively impact the aesthetics of the ring.

Metal Ring Adjusters

Metal ring adjusters are typically applied by a jeweller. They include:

• Ring sizing beads: Small metal balls are soldered onto the bottom of the ring, preventing it from turning.
• Spring insert: A horseshoe-shaped strip of metal is inserted into the bottom 3/4 of the inside of the band. It springs open to allow the ring to get past the knuckle and then springs back to fit snugly.
• Fold-over device/sizing bar: A U-shaped bar with a hinge on one side and a latch on the other is soldered across the bottom of the ring. The latch is opened to put the ring on and then closed to secure it in place.

Metal adjusters are more permanent and less visible than plastic adjusters, but they may be more expensive and require the help of a professional.

How to Choose the Right Ring Adjuster

When choosing a ring adjuster, it is best to get advice from a jeweller. They can recommend the best option for your ring and may even sell adjusters at a low cost. It is also important to consider the durability, aesthetics, and ease of use of the adjuster. If you choose a plastic adjuster, buy a few extras in case they need to be replaced.

When Not to Use a Ring Adjuster

While ring adjusters are a great temporary solution, there are some cases when resizing the ring is a better option. If your ring is constantly falling off and causing serious frustration, it may be time to resize. Additionally, if your ring has an engraving on the inside of the band, resizing may ruin its sentimental value.

Using nail polish

Firstly, clean your ring thoroughly with rubbing alcohol, focusing on the interior back and sides. Try to avoid the setting, especially if your ring has pearls, as these can be easily damaged. Next, cut a piece of tape, around an inch in length, and set it aside. You can use painter's tape for this. Apply a coat of non-toxic, clear nail polish to the inside of the ring, focusing on the back, with a little coming up the sides. Do not apply the polish all the way around the ring, as this will cause it to sit oddly and look strange when worn. Set the nail polish bottle down on one end of the tape and lean your ring against the bottle, keeping it as vertical as possible. The tape will help the ring stay in place and prevent the wet polish from running off.

Once the polish is dry, you can add two or three more coats if needed, testing the fit between each coat. If the ring becomes too tight, simply wipe off the nail polish to return it to its original size.

While this method is convenient and quick, there are some drawbacks to consider. Firstly, nail polish can be toxic, so it is important to use a non-toxic, clear nail polish to avoid any health risks. Additionally, if you do not use a peel-off, water-based nail polish, you may accidentally damage any fake gems or pearls when removing the nail polish.

Using dental floss

To make your ring smaller using dental floss, start by cutting off a long piece of waxed dental floss, about 35 inches, from the roll. You will then need to overlap the floss at least twice and join one of the edges together with a lighter. Pass the ring through the floss and hold both ends together so that it dangles like a pendant. Pass the burnt edge of the floss through the other edge, which should now be a loop, to make the first knot. Repeat the process of making knots until the floss covers the back of the ring, trying the ring on at intervals until it fits. When you are happy with the fit, use a pair of scissors to cut off the excess floss, or burn it off with a lighter.

Bear in mind that this is a temporary solution, and you will need to take your ring off before getting your hands wet, as the floss will absorb water and may irritate your finger.

Using monofilament fishing line

First, cut a strand of clear monofilament fishing line. The length of the strand will depend on the size of your ring. It should be long enough to wrap around the ring several times, with some excess on both ends for tying knots. A good starting point is a strand that is at least 40 centimetres long.

Next, string the fishing line through the ring. You want to leave one end of the line longer than the other. The shorter end should still be long enough to tie both ends together at the end.

Now, hold the longer end of the fishing line in place and start wrapping the shorter end around the ring's band in loops. Try to keep the loops close together and tight, so they take the shape of the ring's band.

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

When you have threaded both ends through the loops, pull them to tighten the fishing line and hold everything together firmly. Make sure to keep all the loops aligned for a neat finish.

Finally, cut off any excess fishing line. If the ring still doesn't fit as desired, you can always try using a thicker fishing line.

Using food-grade silicone

To resize your ring with food-grade silicone, start by cleaning the inside of your ring with rubbing alcohol. This will ensure that the silicone adheres properly and reduce the risk of any skin reactions. It is important to avoid the setting if your ring has a pearl or stone setting. Once the ring is clean, use a small applicator, such as a popsicle stick or a coffee stirrer, to apply the silicone to the inside of the ring. Apply a thicker amount of silicone to the portion of the ring opposite the setting, and a small amount on the sides, creating a tapering effect. Smooth the silicone over the ring's shank to ensure an even application. Use a paper towel, slightly dampened with water if needed, to wipe away any excess adhesive from the outer portion of the ring.

Allow the silicone to cure completely before wearing the ring. This is a crucial step, as wearing the ring too soon can cause the silicone to come loose after just a few days. The curing time may vary depending on the product, so be sure to check the package instructions. Once the silicone is fully cured, it should feel dry and transparent. You may need to apply additional layers of silicone if the ring still does not fit comfortably. Try to refrain from wearing the ring for at least 24 hours after each application to allow for proper curing.

It is important to note that some substances, such as lotions, perfumes, and sunscreens, may cause the silicone to come loose more quickly. Additionally, over time, the silicone may become grubby or loosen at the ends. However, it can be easily peeled off and reapplied as needed. This method is a simple, durable, and cost-effective solution for making your wedding ring smaller without causing any damage to the original ring.

Frequently asked questions