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Now we need to shape the braided wire into our round, ring shape.
Begin gently bending the wire into a round shape. If you have a ring
mandrel, you can use this to assist you in shaping the braided wire.
It is important that you gently shape the wire into a round shape.
Move the braided wire in a series of small movements until it has the round
shape that you need. Keep the beginning end of the braid on the inside
of the ring (no sharp wire ends). The beginning and the end of the
braided wire should ultimately overlap by about 3/8. to 1/2". Cut
any excess wire after you have achieved the 3/8" to 1/2" overlap. Continue
shaping the wire until it naturally assumes the size that you need for your
ring.
Once the ring is in the correct shape and size, you finish this jewelry making project by wrapping fine gauge wire around the portion of the ring where the beginning and the end of the ring overlap. The ring should be shaped by hand until it retains its shape and size without the wrapped wire. 24 gauge wire works great for the wrap. Wrap tight and check the size of the ring as you continue wrapping. Once your wrap has covered both the beginning and end of the braid, cut the excess wire on both ends and you have a completed ring. Use chain nose pliers to help tuck in any loose wire ends. When you wear this ring, it may be more appropriate to wear the braided portion of the ring on the inside, or palm side of your finger. This allows the braid to show and hides the overlap of the beginning and ending of the braid. |
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