How To Resize Your Wedding Ring To A Larger Fit

Wedding rings are precious gifts that symbolise the value and thoughtfulness of a relationship. Over time, a wedding ring may no longer fit perfectly, becoming too tight or too loose. Fortunately, resizing a ring is possible, and there are several methods to achieve this. This can be done by a professional jeweller or even at home. However, consulting a specialist is recommended to avoid damaging the ring. The cost of resizing varies depending on the complexity of the task and the type of metal, with simple resizing starting at $20 and more complex jobs costing over $100. Enlarging a ring is generally more complex than reducing its size, and some rings, such as those made of tungsten or titanium, may be challenging or impossible to resize.

Can You Enlarge a Wedding Ring?

When to resize a ring

A ring that fits you well should slide onto your finger without much effort but should also give some resistance when you try to take it off. If there is no resistance, the ring is too big and may slip off. If it's too tight or cuts off circulation, it's too small.

Body weight fluctuations can cause your ring size to change, so if you've gained or lost weight, you may need to resize your ring. Water retention and swollen knuckles can also affect the fit of your ring, especially during pregnancy. Temperature changes can also play a role, with rings typically fitting tighter in hot weather and looser in cold weather.

If your ring is loose, it may be a security issue. A ring that constantly spins on your finger is probably too loose and can be easily lost. This is especially true if your ring has diamonds or other stones, as a loose fit can lead to damage.

If your ring is too tight, it may be uncomfortable or even painful to wear. In some cases, a tight ring can cut off circulation to your finger.

In general, if you are unable to get the ring on or off your finger, or if it is uncomfortable to wear, it's a good idea to have it resized.

Keep in mind that some rings cannot be resized, such as those made of certain metals like tungsten, titanium, or stainless steel, or those with continuous settings of gems around the band. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a reputable jeweler who can advise you on the best course of action.

How to make a ring bigger

While it is recommended to get a ring resized by a professional jeweller, there are some methods you can use to make a ring bigger at home.

Using a Ring Stretcher

First, you need to find the size of the ring and the size of the finger you want to wear it on. You can do this by using a ring mandrel, a tapered metal rod with ring sizes marked on it, or a ring sizer, which looks like a set of keys with metal rings of different sizes attached. You can also use a strip of paper and a conversion chart to determine your ring size.

Once you know the size of your finger and the ring, you can use a ring stretcher tool or a steel mandrel to stretch the ring. Place the ring around the hollow mandrel and insert the pin. Then, use a rawhide hammer to gently tap the top of the stretcher. Check the size of the ring by trying it on your finger, and hammer it again if necessary. Remember that it is easier to stretch a ring than to shrink it, so it is best to stretch it in small increments.

Using a Hammer and Mandrel

Place the ring on a steel mandrel, which is a tapered metal rod, at the narrow end. Tap all the way around the ring with a rawhide hammer, rotating the ring as you tap to ensure that you are hitting all sides evenly. Then, flip the ring over and tap the other side. Continue hammering and flipping the ring until it is the right size.

Other Methods

There are also some other methods you can try at home to make a ring bigger. One option is to rub soap on the surface of the ring and place it in a specially calibrated metal cylinder. Then, use a hammer to slowly but firmly hit the ring, rotating it as you tap to ensure that you are hitting all parts. Another method is to mark the lower part of the ring and cut it with pliers to create a gap. Then, adjust the size with the pliers and scrape the edges with a nail file to smooth them out.

It is important to note that these methods may not work for all types of rings, especially those with intricate designs or gemstones. Attempting to resize a ring at home also carries the risk of damaging the ring. Therefore, it is always best to consult a professional jeweller for a safe and effective resizing.

How to make a ring smaller

There are several ways to make a ring smaller, some of which are more permanent than others.

Jeweler-Applied Ring Sizers

A jeweller can resize a ring using a variety of methods, depending on the material of the ring and the extent of the resizing required. One common method is to cut out a small portion of the band and then solder the ends back together to form a tighter circumference. This process involves carefully cutting out a small section of the metal, usually from the bottom of the band, and then joining the two remaining ends with heat and a soldering agent. Another technique involves bending the band inward using pliers or a ring clamp to create a tighter fit.

Jeweler-Applied Ring Resizing Options

When you take your ring to a jeweller to be resized, you can also ask them to add to the ring instead of reducing its circumference, which helps to maintain the integrity of the ring. One option is to add sizing beads, where a jeweller adds two small metal balls to the back part of the inside of the ring. Sizing beads are an economical way to reduce the size of a ring by half a size and they also help to keep the ring upright on the finger. A spring insert is another option, which is a strip of metal shaped like a horseshoe 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 allows for a full ring size reduction and is typically more comfortable for the wearer than sizing beads.

Do-It-Yourself Ring Sizers

If you need to make a ring smaller at home, there are some DIY options available. Plastic ring adjusters are a cheap and quick solution, although they can make the ring sit awkwardly on the finger and are less reliable than a jeweller-applied fix. Another option is to wrap some string or yarn around the base of the ring until you get the desired tightness, ensuring that the ends are tied and tucked in so they are not visible.

Ring Sizers to Avoid

It is not recommended to use tape, liquid guard or food-grade silicone to make a ring smaller, as adhering anything not specifically made for jewelry could cause a negative reaction with the metal or the wearer's skin.

When Not to Resize Your Ring

It is worth noting that if your ring feels loose, there may be temporary factors at play, such as cold weather or weight loss, which could mean that resizing is not necessary. Similarly, factors such as a high-salt meal or temperature fluctuations can cause fingers to expand, so if this is the case, a temporary ring adjuster could be the best solution.

Temporary solutions for resizing a ring at home

There are several temporary solutions for resizing a ring at home. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be as reliable or comfortable as having a jeweller resize your ring. Additionally, some methods may not work with certain ring materials. Here are some options for temporarily resizing a ring:

Plastic Ring Adjusters

Plastic ring adjusters are small silicone or plastic wedges or sleeves that can be placed inside the ring to reduce its size. They are widely available and inexpensive. However, they may cause the ring to sit awkwardly on your finger and can slip out.

String or Yarn

Wrapping string or yarn around the base of the ring can help make it tighter. This method is adjustable and can be used until a more permanent solution is found. However, it may not be as secure as other methods and the ends of the string need to be carefully tied and tucked away.

Food-Grade Silicone

Using clear, food-grade silicone adhesive is a durable and reversible way to resize a ring. Clean the ring with rubbing alcohol, avoiding any pearls or paste gems. Apply a small amount of silicone inside the ring, especially at the portion furthest away from any stones. Smooth the silicone with an applicator or your finger, and clean any excess with a wet paper towel. Allow the silicone to cure for 24-48 hours before wearing the ring. The silicone can be easily peeled off when needed.

Tape, Hot Glue, or Hemp Twine

While not ideal, clear packing tape, hot glue, or hemp twine can be used to make a ring smaller. Tape can be uncomfortable and tends to get dirty and loose quickly. Hot glue is nontoxic but may not be durable, especially in higher temperatures. Hemp twine is visible and can be difficult to tie securely.

Ring Guards

Metal ring guards or sizers can be inserted into the band to adjust the size without permanently altering the ring. These can be purchased or installed by a jeweller.

When to consult a professional

While there are some DIY methods to resize a ring at home, it is always best to consult a professional to resize your wedding ring. A professional jeweller will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure your ring is resized correctly without damaging the ring.

If your ring is made from tungsten, titanium, cobalt, stainless steel, or rose gold, resizing is best left to a professional. These metals are prone to breakage and are difficult to work with during the resizing process. Additionally, non-metallic rings, such as those made from resin, crystal, or ceramic, cannot be resized due to the risk of breakage.

If your ring has intricate designs or gemstones along the band, it is also best to consult a professional. They will be able to advise on the feasibility of resizing and ensure that the process does not damage the integrity of the ring.

Resizing a ring typically costs between $20 to $100 or more, depending on the complexity of the task and the type of metal. It always costs more to enlarge a ring as metal is added, and thicker rings and those with diamonds will also be more expensive.

When consulting a professional, be sure to ask for quotes and check reviews. Most jewellers can complete a ring resizing job within a few days to a couple of weeks, but it is recommended to allow a month, especially if you need the ring by a certain date.

Frequently asked questions