Tool Tips with Sherry

Tool Tip #2 Ring Sizing a ring correctly is one of the most important steps in metalsmithing. Whether you are working with plain or textured 24 gauge sheet metal, getting the right fit ensures comfort and a professional finish. In this post, I’ll walk you through a straightforward method to size rings accurately using simple tools and a reliable ring size chart.

Preparing the Metal for Sizing

Start with your 24 gauge sheet metal, which is a popular choice for rings because it is thin enough to shape easily but sturdy enough to hold form. If you want a textured look, you can use textured sheet metal as well.

To begin, use dividers to mark the width of the ring band on the sheet metal. This step is crucial because the width affects both the comfort and appearance of the ring. Score the metal along the marked lines with the dividers to create a clear guide for cutting.

Before cutting, add about 0.6 mm to the length of the metal strip. This extra length accounts for the overlap needed when joining the ends or for slight adjustments during shaping. You can also use the ring size chart below to determine the exact length you need based on the desired ring size.

Cutting and Shaping the Ring

Use metal shears or a jeweler’s saw to cut the strip along the scored lines. After cutting, the corners of the metal strip may be sharp or uneven. Use a mallet to gently hammer the corners down, rounding them off for a smoother finish.

Next, shape the metal strip around a ring mandrel. Hammer the metal carefully, moving it around the mandrel until the ring reaches the desired size. The mandrel helps maintain a perfect circle and ensures the ring fits standard sizing.

Ring Size Chart for Reference

Use this chart to find the inside circumference and corresponding ring size. Measure your metal strip length accordingly before cutting.

Inside Circumference	Size
1.94 inch / 49 mm	5
2.00 inch / 51 mm	5.5
2.04 inch / 51.2 mm	6
2.10 inch / 53 mm	6.5
2.14 inch / 54 mm	7
2.20 inch / 56 mm	7.5
2.24 inch / 57 mm	8
2.30 inch / 59 mm	8.5
2.34 inch / 59.5 mm	9
2.40 inch / 61 mm	9.5
2.44 inch / 62 mm	10