Resizing Your Wedding Band: Making It Snug And Secure

There are many reasons why your wedding band may not fit you perfectly. It could be that you've lost weight, or perhaps you've inherited the ring from someone with larger hands. Whatever the reason, there are several ways to resize your ring. You can opt for a permanent fix by taking your ring to a professional jeweler, or you can try a temporary DIY solution at home.

Using a ring adjuster

Step 1: Choose the Right Adjuster

There are several types of ring adjusters available, including:

• Inserts: Horseshoe-shaped inserts that make the ring up to one ring size smaller.
• Sizing beads: These are soldered onto the bottom of the ring by a jeweller, helping the ring stay upright when it's slightly loose.
• Fold-over device: A jeweller installs a latch that opens when you put on the ring and closes to secure it.
• Plastic ring adjusters: These can be used without the help of a jeweller and are usually clear, but you can also find them in colours like yellow gold and rose gold.

Step 2: Prepare the Ring

Before attaching the adjuster, clean the ring to ensure that the adjuster sticks well. If you're using a plastic ring adjuster, wipe the ring with the provided cloth to ensure it's free of dirt and oils.

Step 3: Attach the Adjuster

The process of attaching the adjuster will depend on the type you've chosen. For plastic ring adjusters, you'll typically need to:

• Remove the strip that fits the width of your ring.
• Press the sticker onto the inside of the ring.
• Let the sticker adhere for about 10 minutes.

For metal adjusters like sizing beads, you'll need to visit a jeweller who can solder them onto the bottom of your ring.

Step 4: Adjust for Comfort

After attaching the adjuster, try on the ring to ensure it fits comfortably. If it feels too tight, you may need to remove some of the adjuster material or choose a thinner option. If it's still too loose, consider adding more coils or using a thicker adjuster.

Step 5: Maintain and Replace

Ring adjusters, especially those made of plastic or silicone, may not last forever. They can wear down over time, so it's important to check them occasionally and replace them as needed. Buying extra adjusters in bulk is a good idea, as they're affordable and easy to replace.

With silicone coils

Silicone coils are a great way to resize your wedding band without damaging it. They are soft, comfortable, and easy to use. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make your wedding band smaller using silicone coils:

Step 1: Choose the Right Coil Size

First, you need to select the appropriate coil size for your ring. Silicone coils come in different sizes, and the thicker the coil, the tighter your ring will become. Choose a coil that is slightly smaller than your desired ring size.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ring

Before attaching the silicone coil, ensure your wedding band is clean and dry. You can use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. It is important to have a clean surface for the coil to adhere properly.

Step 3: Attach the Silicone Coil

Now, it's time to attach the silicone coil to your wedding band. Start by clipping one end of the coil to the bottom of your ring. Then, gently twist the coil around the band until it covers the entire shank (band) of the ring. You may need to adjust the coil to ensure it is snug and secure.

Step 4: Check the Fit

Once you have applied the silicone coil, try on the ring to check the fit. Ensure that the ring feels comfortable and snug on your finger. If it still feels too loose, you may need to add another coil or choose a thicker size.

Step 5: Cut Excess Coil (If Necessary)

If there is any excess coil remaining after you have achieved the desired fit, you can carefully cut it away. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a similar tool to trim the coil, ensuring that it is still secure and does not unravel. Be cautious not to cut too much, as you may need to adjust the coil in the future.

Step 6: Care and Maintenance

Silicone coils are a temporary solution, and you can easily remove or replace them whenever needed. They are durable and can be worn daily. However, it is important to remove your ring before engaging in activities that may cause the coil to stretch or become damaged, such as swimming or strenuous work with your hands. Additionally, avoid exposing the coil to harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they may degrade the silicone over time.

Silicone coils are an excellent option for making your wedding band smaller without causing any damage. They are simple to use, comfortable to wear, and provide a secure fit. By following these steps, you can easily adjust your wedding band to the desired size.

Using nail polish

First, you will need to clean the ring thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. This step is crucial, as it will ensure that the nail polish adheres properly to the ring. Focus on the interior back and sides of the ring, being careful to avoid any stone settings, especially if it is a pearl ring, as these can be easily damaged.

Next, prepare a piece of tape, about an inch long. Painter's tape is a good option. This will be used later in the process.

Now, it's time to apply the nail polish. Start by applying a coat of nail polish to the inside of the ring, focusing on the back and bringing it slightly up the sides. Do not apply the polish all the way around, as this will cause the ring to sit oddly on your finger and look strange.

After applying the first coat, place the nail polish bottle on one end of the tape, and lean the ring against the bottle, keeping it as vertical as possible. The tape will prevent the ring from falling and allow any excess nail polish to run off onto the tape.

Let the polish dry completely, and then apply two to three more coats, testing the fit between each coat. It is important to try on the ring to ensure a comfortable fit and avoid making the ring too tight.

If the ring becomes too tight, you can easily remove the nail polish and start again. You can also use nail polish remover, but be careful if your ring has any fake gems or pearls, as these can be damaged by harsh removers.

While this method is quick and convenient, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Nail polish may contain toxic chemicals, which can be absorbed into the body through the skin. Therefore, it is recommended to use a non-toxic, water-based nail polish to minimise any potential health risks. Additionally, nail polish may not be a long-lasting solution, as it can peel off easily, requiring frequent reapplication.

Overall, using nail polish to make a wedding band smaller is a simple and effective method for a temporary fix. It is important to follow the steps carefully and consider the pros and cons before attempting this technique.

With dental floss

Using dental floss is a cheap and simple way to make a ring smaller. This method can be used to resize a ring temporarily, without having to take it to a professional jeweller. It is important to note that you will need to remove the ring before washing your hands, as the thread will absorb water and take some time to dry.

To resize your ring with dental floss, start by cutting off a long piece of waxed dental floss—approximately 35 inches. Overlap the floss at least twice and join one of the edges with a lighter. Pass the ring through the floss and hold both ends together, so the ring dangles like a pendant. Pass the burnt edge through the other edge to make the first knot. Repeat this process until you have made several knots and the floss covers a large portion of the back of the ring. Remember to try the ring on at intervals to ensure you don't make it too small. When you are happy with the size, cut off the excess floss with scissors or burn it off with a lighter.

The wax in the dental floss will soften with your body heat and adjust to the shape of your finger, so it won't feel uncomfortable. This method is a great way to make your ring smaller without having to pay for professional resizing.

Using monofilament fishing line

First, run the fishing line through the ring, ensuring that one end of the line is longer than the other. The shorter end should still be long enough to tie both ends together at the end. Next, hold the longer end in place and wrap the shorter end around the ring's shank in loops, keeping the loops close together with your finger. After forming each loop, tighten the line so that they take 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 not too much, so that the other end can still pass through easily. When both ends have been threaded through the loops, pull them to tighten the line, holding everything together firmly. Remember to keep all the loops aligned. Finally, once you have secured the ends, cut off any excess fishing line.

If the ring still does not fit, you can always try using a thicker fishing line.

Frequently asked questions