Stretching Wedding Bands: Good Or Bad?

Stretching a wedding band is possible, but it may not be a good idea. While it's a simpler process than cutting, it's not suitable for rings with stones, engravings, patterns, enamel, plating, or non-circular shapes. Stretching can also weaken the ring, and it may not yield aesthetically pleasing results. If you do want to stretch your wedding band, it's best to get it done professionally by a jeweller to avoid unsightly lumps or malformations.

Stretching a wedding band at home

Stretching a wedding band is a process that can be done at home, but it is important to note that it is not suitable for all ring designs and may damage certain rings. It is best suited for plain bands made of sterling silver, gold, or platinum. Rings with stones, engravings, patterns, enamel, plating, or non-circular shapes are not recommended for this process as they can be damaged or distorted.

Step 1: Check the Current Ring Size and Desired Finger Size

Use a ring mandrel, a tapered metal rod with marked ring sizes, to determine the current size of your ring. You can purchase one at a hardware store or online. Alternatively, use a ring sizer, which looks like a set of metal rings in different sizes, to find your desired finger size. It is important to note that a ring should fit snugly without causing finger bulging or leaving indent marks.

Step 2: Determine the Amount of Stretching Needed

If the difference between the current ring size and the desired size is more than half a size, it is recommended to consult a professional jeweler. Stretching a ring beyond this limit can weaken and potentially break the ring.

Step 3: Gather the Required Tools

You will need either a ring stretcher tool or a steel mandrel, which is a tapered rod used by jewelers for sizing rings. A steel mandrel is preferred if you plan to hammer the ring. Additionally, you will need a rawhide hammer, which is gentler than a metal hammer and less likely to damage the ring.

Step 4: Prepare the Ring Stretcher Tool (if using)

Assemble the ring stretcher by sliding the slotted, hollow mandrel into the nylon base. This base helps to dampen the impact of hammering. Insert the top pin, which will be hammered to push open the slotted part and expand the ring.

Step 5: Stretch the Ring Using the Ring Stretcher

Place the ring around the hollow mandrel of the stretcher and insert the pin. Gently hammer the top of the stretcher with light taps, avoiding hard taps that could overstretch the ring. Check the ring's width periodically by removing it from the stretcher and trying it on your finger. Remember, it's easier to stretch further than to reverse the process.

Step 6: Stretch the Ring Using a Steel Mandrel (if using)

Slide the ring onto the narrow end of the steel mandrel, ensuring it sits in its natural position without forcing it down. Hold the mandrel securely or use a bench pin to attach it to a table. Tap the top of the ring with the rawhide hammer, rotating the ring as you tap to ensure even expansion. Flip the ring over and repeat the tapping process on the other side to maintain evenness. Continue this process until the ring reaches the desired size.

It is important to note that stretching a ring can weaken the metal, and there is always a risk of the ring snapping. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing this process at home, it is best to consult a professional jeweler for assistance.

Tools required for stretching

To stretch a ring, you will need a ring stretcher tool or a steel mandrel.

Ring stretchers come in many different forms and prices vary enormously. The Rathburn ring stretcher, for example, is ideal for both beginner jewellery makers and expert jewellers. It comes in two parts: an outer section that consists of a series of flexible segments and an inner shaft that fits down the centre. As the inner shaft is pushed down with the help of a hammer, it forces the outer segments to splay out, stretching the ring.

A steel mandrel, on the other hand, is a tapered rod that jewellers use for sizing rings. You can use it to stretch your ring by tapping the ring with a rawhide hammer, pushing it further down the mandrel.

Other tools that can be useful for ring stretching include a ring sizer, a ring mandrel, a bench pin, a rubber or metal hammer, a ring clamp, and a ring reducer.

Risks of stretching a wedding band

Stretching a wedding band is not always a good idea and can come with several risks. Firstly, it is important to note that ring stretching is not suitable for all ring designs and will damage certain types of rings. Rings with stones, engravings, patterns, enamel, plating, and certain metals are not suitable for stretching. Attempting to stretch these types of rings can result in damage to the settings, stones, patterns, and designs. For example, stretching a ring with stones can cause them to pop off, while stretching a ring with an engraved pattern can distort the pattern and result in an uneven appearance.

Additionally, stretching a ring at home using tools such as a ring stretcher or a steel mandrel can be risky. It is easy to overstretch the ring, resulting in a size that is too large. Stretching the ring too much can weaken the metal, leading to the risk of the ring breaking. Furthermore, stretching a ring at home may result in unsightly lumps or malformations, whereas having a qualified jeweler resize the ring can yield more seamless results.

Another consideration is that stretching a ring can affect its width and thickness. When a ring is stretched, it becomes thinner, and if stretched too much, it can weaken the structure. Therefore, it is generally recommended to only stretch a ring by up to half a size to avoid significant changes in its dimensions.

In conclusion, while it is possible to stretch a wedding band, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. Ring stretching is only suitable for certain types of plain bands, and attempting to stretch other designs can result in damage. It is also crucial to be cautious when stretching a ring at home to avoid overstretching and weakening the metal. For best results, it may be preferable to consult a professional jeweler for resizing.

How to stretch a wedding band

Stretching a wedding band is a risky process that can damage the ring. However, if you have a simple ring without any stones, engraving, or non-circular shape, you can stretch it at home with the help of some simple tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Preparing and Sizing:

• Don't stretch a ring with stones or an engraving. If you do, the stones might pop off, and the engraving will become misshapen.
• Check the current size of your ring with a mandrel, a tapered metal rod with ring sizes marked on it. You can buy one at a hardware store or online.
• Figure out your ring size using a ring sizer, which looks like a set of keys with metal rings of different sizes. Try on the rings until you find the one that fits. Alternatively, you can use a strip of paper to measure your finger, then find a conversion chart online to convert the measurement to a ring size.
• Note that it's impossible to have a ring fit perfectly, as our fingers change size throughout the day. A ring should fit snugly without making your finger bulge or leaving indent marks.
• Stretch a ring up to only half a size bigger. If the difference is more than that, consult a jeweler. Stretching a ring makes the metal thinner, so overstretching can weaken and break the ring.

Using a Ring Stretcher:

• Slide the hollow bottom of the stretcher into the base. Work on a hard surface like a concrete floor or sturdy metal table.
• Put the ring around the hollow mandrel and insert the pin. The ring should fit snugly.
• Hammer the top of the stretcher gently with a rawhide hammer. Hammer lightly with many light taps rather than a few hard taps to slowly expand the ring.
• Check the width of your ring and hammer again if necessary. Remember, it's easier to stretch than to shrink, so stretch in small increments.

Using a Steel Mandrel:

• Slide the ring onto a steel mandrel, not a plastic one, starting at the narrow end. Don't force it on, as you'll be pushing it down further with a hammer.
• Tap all the way around the ring with a rawhide hammer. Tap the top of the ring, not the side, rotating the ring as you tap to ensure evenness.
• Flip the ring over and tap it on the other side. The mandrel is tapered, so tapping only one side will result in an uneven finish.
• Continue hammering and flipping the ring until it is the right size. Check how far the ring has slid down the mandrel after each round of hammering.
• If your ring is stuck on the mandrel, tap it lightly in the other direction with your hammer until it loosens.

When to get a wedding band professionally stretched

Stretching a wedding band is not always a good idea. While it works well for plain bands, it is incompatible with many ring designs and can damage the ring. If your wedding band has stones, patterns, engravings, enamel, plating, or a non-circular shape, it is best to avoid stretching it. Instead, consider getting it professionally resized by a jeweler.

Now, when should you get your wedding band professionally stretched? Here are some scenarios:

• When the ring has stones: If your wedding band has stones, it is not advisable to stretch it at home. The settings and stones can be affected during the stretching process, and they may even come loose or get damaged. Therefore, it is best to leave it to a professional who can use other methods to resize the ring without risking damage to the stones.
• When the ring has intricate patterns, engravings, or designs: Stretching a ring with intricate patterns, engravings, or unique designs can distort its appearance. The stretching process can pull and widen patterns, distort engravings, and even remove beveled edges or milgrain detailing. To preserve the beauty and integrity of your wedding band, it is advisable to have it professionally stretched or resized to avoid any unwanted changes to its design.
• When the ring has enamel or plating: Hard enamel can crack or splinter during the stretching process, and plating can be scratched or removed, requiring replating at an additional cost. To avoid damaging the enamel or plating, it is best to consult a professional who can use alternative methods to resize your ring.
• When the ring is not circular: Non-circular rings, such as square, octagon, or flat-topped shapes, are not suitable for stretching. The stretching process can alter or damage the unique design of these rings. To maintain the shape and integrity of your non-circular wedding band, professional resizing is the recommended approach.
• When the ring is made of certain metals: Not all metals can be stretched. While sterling silver, gold, and platinum bands can be stretched, materials like tungsten or ceramic carbide are not conducive to the stretching process. If your wedding band is made of a metal that cannot be stretched, you will need to seek professional assistance for resizing.
• When the size difference is more than half a size: Ring stretching is typically effective for increasing or decreasing the size by approximately one to two sizes. If you require a larger size adjustment, it is best to consult a professional jeweler. They can use alternative methods, such as cutting the ring open and adding or removing metal, to achieve the desired size without compromising the integrity of the ring.

In summary, while ring stretching can be a convenient option for plain bands, it is not suitable for all types of wedding bands. To avoid potential damage or undesirable changes to your ring, it is important to consider its specific characteristics and consult a professional jeweler when in doubt. They will have the expertise and tools to resize your wedding band while preserving its beauty and structural integrity.

Frequently asked questions