Crafting A Brass Wedding Ring: A Step-By-Step Guide

Brass is a beautiful and affordable alternative to gold for wedding rings. You can make a brass wedding ring from a brass compression fitting, which comes in all kinds of sizes, or a brass nut. You will also need a drill, a grinder, sandpaper, a vise, and a 6v lantern battery and copper wire if you want to etch the ring. You can also make a wedding ring from a used brass bullet shell, which you can cut, shape, and polish.

Sourcing materials

Online Marketplaces:

Etsy is an excellent source for brass wedding rings and jewellery-making supplies. They offer a wide range of brass rings in various styles, from hammered finishes to inlaid designs. Etsy also provides customizable and personalized options, allowing you to work directly with sellers to create your unique wedding ring.

Local Hardware Stores:

For a more hands-on approach, you can source brass from your local hardware store. Brass compression fittings, for example, can be found in different sizes and shaped into rings with some hammering and sanding. This option is cost-effective and allows you to customize your ring to your desired size and finish.

Metalworking Supplies:

If you're interested in crafting the ring from scratch, you'll need to source brass in a form that can be shaped and worked on. Brass nuts, for instance, can be drilled, sanded, and polished into a ring. You will also require metal files, sandpaper, a drill, a grinder, and possibly a vise to hold the brass securely while you work on it.

Used Brass Items:

Another creative source for brass is to repurpose used brass items. For example, brass bullet shells can be cut, sanded, and shaped into rings. This option may require more work to achieve the desired shape and finish, but it adds a unique, upcycled element to your wedding ring.

Jewellers and Crafts Specialists:

Specialist craft stores, jewellers, and metalsmiths are excellent sources for materials and expertise. They can provide you with raw or partially prepared brass, as well as the tools and equipment needed for shaping, soldering, and polishing. These specialists may also offer guidance and advice on creating your wedding ring, ensuring you have the necessary materials and skills.

Cutting and drilling

To make a brass wedding ring, you will need to cut and drill your materials. The first step is to cut the brass to size. This can be done with a saw or a pipe cutter, depending on the type of brass you are using. If you are using a brass pipe, you will need to cut a section that is a little wider than the desired ring size. If you are using a brass sheet, you can cut out a strip that is the desired width of the ring.

Once you have the brass cut to the desired size, you will need to drill holes in it. The size of the drill bit will depend on the thickness of the brass and the desired size of the ring. It's important to use a sharp drill bit to make clean holes. Mark the centre of the brass where you want to drill and start with a small pilot hole before drilling the final hole size. This will help to ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of the brass cracking or breaking.

After drilling, you will need to sand or file the edges of the brass to smooth out any roughness and create a comfortable fit. Use a metal file or sandpaper to carefully shape and smooth the edges. This process will also help to round out the ring and create a more comfortable band. It is important to take your time during this step to ensure a precise and comfortable fit.

Finally, you can use a drill or a lathe to shape the ring. A drill can be used to create a more basic ring shape, while a lathe can be used to create a more intricate or detailed design. By using different drill bits and techniques, you can shape the brass into your desired ring form. This process may require some practice and experimentation to achieve the desired result.

Shaping and filing

To begin shaping your brass ring, you will need to decide on the design. If you are using a brass nut, you will need to drill out the threads and grind off all but two or three corners, depending on your chosen design. This will form the basic structure of your ring. If you are using a bullet shell, cut it at the middle and use a vice to clamp down a solid piece of metal. Hammer the shell on it to start shaping the ring, gradually increasing its size until you reach the desired dimensions.

Once you have the basic shape, it's time to refine it. Use a bench grinder to smooth out the surface and bring it closer to your desired size. This step will help you achieve a more precise shape. After grinding, move on to filing. Use a metal file to shape the ring further, rounding out the faces if you are creating a crown-like design. File the ring carefully, ensuring that you achieve a symmetrical shape.

The next step is to sand the ring. Use sandpaper to adjust the size and finish. Start with rough-grit sandpaper to shape the ring and gradually work your way through finer grits to achieve a smoother finish. Sanding will help you refine the shape and create a more comfortable fit. It is important to take your time during this step to ensure a smooth and polished surface.

Finally, if your design includes intricate details or patterns, you may need to etch the metal. While there are various metal etching techniques, a simple method involves using salt water and a battery. Cover the ring with masking tape and cut out the desired pattern. Connect one wire to the positive terminal of the battery and place it in the salt water. Connect another wire to the negative terminal and to the ring, then place it in the water as well. After a few hours, you should have a small etch on the exposed metal areas.

By following these shaping and filing instructions, you will be well on your way to creating a beautiful and unique brass wedding ring. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.

Fitting and soldering

First, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials: a bullet shell (preferably a 50 cal. shell), scrap metal, a small fake diamond, a saw, a hammer, a drill, sandpaper, polish, solder and flux, a torch, and super glue. Once you have gathered these materials, you can begin the process.

Start by drilling out or removing the primer from the bullet shell. Then, saw off the primer end and sand it down until you reach the desired width for your ring. If the shell is too small, you can use a vice to clamp down a solid round piece of metal and hammer the ring on it to enlarge it gradually. Use a bench grinder, file, and sandpaper to shape the ring symmetrically and smooth out any rough edges.

Now, for the fitting and soldering. Sand or file the bullet shell butt so that it fits neatly onto the ring. Hold the ring in a vice to keep it steady. Solder the primer end of the shell to the ring, ensuring it is centred. You may need to do some touch-up sanding around the joint to create a seamless finish.

Finally, set the stone by applying a small amount of super glue into the hole and carefully placing the stone. Ensure the stone is straight and securely attached. Give the ring a final polish, and your brass wedding ring is complete!

Remember to take your time during the fitting and soldering process, as it is crucial for the structural integrity and aesthetics of your ring.

Polishing and finishing

Firstly, it is important to determine whether your ring is lacquered or not. If there is a thin, shiny coating that is coming off in places, then the ring is lacquered and should be taken to a professional for refinishing.

If your ring is not lacquered, you can begin the polishing process. Before polishing, wash the ring with mild dish soap and warm water, then wipe away the soapy water with a soft, damp cloth. You can then use a polishing cloth to polish and dry the ring.

There are several methods you can use to polish your ring, ranging from store-bought cleaners to homemade solutions. If you wish to use a store-bought cleaner, Brasso, Bar Keepers Friend, and Blue Magic are all recommended products for brass. When using these products, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take care not to use anything thicker than grade 00 steel wool to avoid scratching the surface.

If you prefer a more natural approach, you can make your own brass polish at home. Here are some effective DIY solutions:

• Lemon and baking soda: Combine the juice of half a lemon with a teaspoon of baking soda and stir until it forms a paste. Apply the paste with a soft cloth. For heavy tarnish, let the paste sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water and drying.
• Lemon and salt: Cut a lemon in half and cover the cut section with a teaspoon of table salt. Rub the lemon on the ring, squeezing to release the juice. Rinse with warm water and dry.
• Flour, salt, and white vinegar: Mix equal parts of all three ingredients to create a paste. Apply a thin layer of the paste to the ring and leave it for an hour before rinsing with warm water and drying.
• Ketchup: Ketchup contains acid that helps remove tarnish from brass. Apply a layer of ketchup to the ring and leave it on for an hour. Then, wash with warm water and dish soap, and let it dry.

After polishing, you can further refine the finish of your ring. To create a satin finish, use a brass brush with soapy water and detergent or hand soap. Apply the solution in circular motions or straight lines to create the desired pattern. For a brushed finish, use a steel or brass brush with sandpaper to create more obvious lines and a coarser texture.

Once you are happy with the finish of your ring, you can apply a thin layer of linseed oil or mineral oil to prevent tarnishing and store the ring in a dry location.

Frequently asked questions