Resizing Wedding Bands: Enlarging Your Ring In Simple Steps

There are several ways to make a wedding ring bigger, but it's always best to consult a professional jeweller to avoid damaging the ring. If you're determined to do it yourself, you can use a mallet to stretch the ring, or cut the band and add a piece of metal to expand the circumference. However, some rings can't be resized, including those made of titanium, cobalt, tungsten carbide, and stainless steel.

Stretching the metal

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 use a ring mandrel to measure the ring size. A ring mandrel is a tapered, metal rod with ring sizes marked on it. You can also use a ring sizer, which looks like a set of keys with metal rings of different sizes.

Once you have determined the correct size, you can use a ring stretcher tool or a steel mandrel to stretch the ring. A ring stretcher has three parts: a nylon base, a slotted hollow mandrel, and a top pin. Place the nylon base on a firm, hard surface, then slide the mandrel into it. Put the ring around the mandrel and insert the pin. Use a rawhide hammer to gently tap the top pin until the slotted part opens up and stretches the ring. Check the size of the ring by trying it on or using a ring mandrel. If it is still too small, place it back in the stretcher and hammer it again.

Using a Steel Mandrel

You can also use a steel mandrel to both measure and stretch your ring. Slide the ring onto the narrow end of the mandrel, then tap it with a wooden mallet, rawhide hammer, or jeweller's hammer. Rotate the ring as you tap it, so that you are hitting all sides evenly. Stop when you have tapped a full circle around the ring, then flip the ring over and tap the other side. Continue hammering and flipping the ring until it is the correct size.

Cutting and welding

While resizing a ring is typically done by a professional jeweller, it is possible to cut and weld a ring at home to make it bigger. However, it is important to note that this process requires careful handling and specialised tools, and improper resizing can weaken the metal and affect the ring's integrity.

If you wish to make your wedding ring bigger by cutting and welding, the following steps can be taken:

• Marking and Cutting: First, mark the bottom part of the ring where you want to make the cut. This will create a gap when cut, allowing you to adjust the size.
• Adjusting Size: Using pliers, carefully adjust the ring to your desired size. This step requires precision and a gentle touch to avoid damaging the ring.
• Smoothing Edges: After achieving the desired size, use a nail file to smooth out the cut edges. This step ensures that any sharpness from the cut does not scratch your hand.
• Welding: The next step is to weld the two ends together. Secure the two pieces together with pliers, ensuring they fit snugly and are aligned correctly.
• Soldering: Apply heat and a soldering agent to join the two ends seamlessly. This process requires a soldering iron and solder wire, creating a strong bond to hold the ring together.
• Polishing: Finally, polish the ring to smooth out any visible seams or imperfections from the welding process.

It is important to note that this process may vary depending on the type of metal and the complexity of the ring's design. Some rings, such as those made of stainless steel or with intricate full-circumference designs, may not be suitable for cutting and welding. Additionally, some metals, like tungsten, cobalt, and titanium, require more advanced techniques and tools for resizing.

If you are unsure about performing this process yourself, it is always best to consult a professional jeweller, who can ensure that the resizing is done correctly and safely.

Using sizing beads

Sizing beads are a great option if you need to make minor adjustments to your wedding ring, such as dealing with a spinning ring. This method is also perfect if you have large knuckles.

To use sizing beads, a jeweller will solder two small metal beads on the bottom of the ring. This is typically done on the inside of the band. These beads act as a wedge between the ring band and your finger, helping to keep the ring in place and preventing it from spinning.

Sizing beads are an economical and simple solution to adjust your ring size. They are perfect for reducing the ring size by half. Additionally, sizing beads can help keep your ring upright on your finger.

However, it is important to note that some people may find sizing beads uncomfortable. Therefore, it is recommended to ask your jeweller if you can try on a ring with sizing beads before committing to this adjustment.

Adding a spring insert

If your wedding ring is too small, one option to make it bigger is to add a spring insert. This is a strip of metal, usually in the shape of a horseshoe, that lines the bottom 3/4 of the inside of the band. It springs open slightly to allow the ring to pass over your knuckle, then springs back to fit snugly at the base of your finger. This method is a little more complicated for the jeweller than adding sizing beads, but it is still an affordable choice. Most people find a spring insert more comfortable than sizing beads.

Spring inserts are a good option if your ring is top-heavy and won't stay upright, or if you have a large knuckle. If your knuckle is a couple of sizes bigger than your finger, a spring insert can help to keep the ring tight and snug.

To install a spring insert, a jeweller will first need to size up the ring to make room for the spring. They will then solder the spring into the ring.

Spring inserts can be made of white gold, or platinum, depending on the ring. They can also be made from the same metal as the ring.

Using a ring guard

There are different types of ring guards available. One option is a spring insert, which is a U-shaped piece of metal that is attached to the inside of the ring's band. This makes the ring adjustable to the finger's size and shape. Another type of ring guard is a hinged U-shaped device with a hasp that can be opened and closed to secure the ring on your finger.

Ring guards can be purchased online or from a local jeweler. They are typically inexpensive, ranging from $40 to $800. When choosing a ring guard, it is important to select one that is made of a soft metal to avoid damaging your ring. It should also be small enough to be inconspicuous and not interfere with the comfort of the ring.

It is worth noting that ring guards are only a temporary solution and should not be worn for an extended period as they can damage the band if worn for too long. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a professional jeweler for a permanent resizing solution if needed.

Frequently asked questions