Creating Unique Wood Wedding Rings: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wooden wedding rings are a unique and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wedding bands. They can be crafted from a variety of materials, including walnut, oak, and cherry wood, and customized with different types of wood and inlays. Making a wooden wedding ring requires careful measurement, cutting, mounting, turning, and finishing. While some people choose to make their own wooden wedding rings by hand, others opt for purchasing them from companies such as BOBO BIRD, which offers a range of wooden rings made from sustainable sources and salvaged materials.

Choosing the right type of wood

When choosing the right type of wood for your wedding ring, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a dense and strong wood type, as the ring will be relatively thin. Some examples of suitable woods include African Padauk, which has a deep orange or reddish colour that will turn into a warm brown over time with UV light exposure, and Ipe, a Brazilian Walnut with a darker colour. These woods are not only durable but also affordable, and you can find them at local wood supply stores.

If you're looking for a unique and beautiful wood type, Hawaiian Koa is an excellent choice. It is often compared to Mahogany and is known for its deep rich tones and interesting grain patterns. Another option is Mahogany itself, which is easy to work with and has a relatively high rot resistance. Sandalwood, with its yellow hue and fine-grained appearance, is also a good choice, especially if you're looking for a wood type with spiritual significance in cultures like Buddhism and Hinduism.

For those who want a dark-hued wood with a finely textured finish, Ebony is an ideal option. It is a dense hardwood known for its durability and ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. Ebony is commonly used in creating high-end instruments, chess sets, and other luxury items.

When selecting the wood for your ring, it's essential to consider the colour, grain pattern, workability, and rot resistance of the wood. You may also want to choose a wood type that holds a special meaning for you or your partner. Remember to avoid softwoods and some burl woods, as they may not be strong enough for an all-wood ring.

Cutting out ring blanks with the grain

To cut out ring blanks with the grain, the first step is to choose the right type of wood. The ring will be fairly thin, so a dense and strong wood is ideal. Examples include African Padauk, which has a reddish colour that will turn warm brown over time with UV light exposure, and Ipe, a Brazilian Walnut with a darker colour. Local wood supply stores usually have a bin of exotic wood billets that are perfect for these projects.

Once you have chosen your wood, cut out the ring blanks from the billet so that the grain runs across it, not through it. If you try to create a ring by slicing off the end of the wood, it will likely crack. Cut one long 3/8" strip from the wood, then cut that into 1 3/8" size blocks, or cut a few at a time from the end. Measurements are approximate, so be sure to add extra width for the sanding process.

Drilling the hole

Firstly, if you already have a ring that you want to match the size of, use a Speedbor or drill bit that is slightly smaller than the ring's hole. If not, you can estimate the size. For a size 10 ring finger, a 3/4" bit is a good starting point. Choose a drill bit that corresponds to the size you require.

Next, carefully drill the wood, going slow and avoiding applying too much pressure. Rock the drill gently back and forth if necessary. It is important to only drill halfway through the block of wood and then flip it over to complete the drilling from the other side. This will prevent chipping on the backside of the wood.

After drilling, flip the block over and continue drilling from the other side. Ensure that you do not try to put the ring on your finger at this stage.

Once the hole is drilled, use a Dremel tool or sandpaper to refine the hole and ensure a comfortable fit. Sand the hole until it slides over your knuckle with ease. Remember, it is crucial to go slow and not force the wood onto your finger.

Finally, you can further refine the shape of the ring by freehanding the outer circle and cutting off the corners to save time on sanding.

By following these steps, you will create a well-drilled hole for your wooden wedding ring, ensuring a comfortable and proper fit.

Sanding the hole to fit

To begin, secure the ring blank in a vice grip. This will provide stability and control during the sanding process. Remember not to force the wood onto your finger. Instead, gently sand the hole until it slides over your knuckle with ease. It is important to frequently check the fit by trying the ring on to ensure a comfortable and accurate size.

For this step, you can use a Dremel tool with a sanding attachment, or you can wrap sandpaper around a wooden dowel or similar object that fits inside the ring. Rotate the dowel or Dremel tool inside the hole, carefully expanding the diameter until the desired fit is achieved.

Take your time and work gradually, as it is easier to sand away more material if needed than it is to regain lost material. Go slowly and check the fit often to avoid over-sanding and having to start over.

Once you are satisfied with the fit, you can move on to the next step of refining the outer shape of the ring and further sanding.

Final sanding and coating with oil

Sanding

The final step in making your wooden wedding ring is sanding it to a finish. This is a delicate process that requires patience and precision. You can use sandpaper or a belt sander for this step, but be sure to go slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the ring. If using a belt sander, keep the ring moving so that one side doesn't get flattened, and always sand with the direction of the wood grain. Finish by beveling the inside and outside edges of the ring.

Coating with oil

Once you're happy with the smoothness of the ring, it's time to apply a coat of oil. You can use Tung oil, Linseed oil, or another drying oil for this step. These oils will dry to a plastic-like consistency, filling in the natural pores of the wood while still allowing the grain and colour to show through. Simply coat the ring with oil and rub it in for a few seconds. You can apply multiple coats if you wish. Alternatively, you can skip this step, and the natural oils from your hands will likely coat the ring over time. However, exposure to harsh shampoos and detergents may undo this.

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