Instructions for Vintage Swirl Ring

Step By Step Instructions

Note: This ring is adjustable, so you can shape it to fit various sized fingers!.

1. Shape the filigree:

• Using bale making pliers:
  
• Hold the center of the filigree gently but firmly with your bale making pliers, with the wrong side facing the larger of the two barrels.
• Bend one end of the filigree, following the curve of the larger barrel; repeat on the opposite end of the filigree. Use your fingers to shape the filigree to the barrel of the pliers.
• Now, move the curved filigree to your ring finger, and adjust gently to fit.

OR

• Using a ring mandrel:
  • Cut a piece of string to approximate your ring finger size. Then fit the string on the ring mandrel to find the appropriate size to use for wrapping the filigree.
  • Center the filigree over the ring mandrel, centering the filigree on the appropriate size marker.
  • Bend one end of the filigree, following the curve of the ring mandrel, using your fingers to shape the filigree against the mandrel. Repeat on the opposite end of the filigree.
  • Now move the curved filigree to your ring finger, and adjust gently to fit.
    

2. Cut a 6" piece of bronze 24 gauge wire.
3. String an Etruscan bead cap, an 8mm round crystal, and an Etruscan bead cap onto the wire.
4. While holding the pieces together, string both ends of the wire through the center opening of the filigree ring base.
5. Use your fingers or chain nose pliers to wrap the wire around the filigree and wire until it is secure.
6. Use your flush cutters to cut the excess wire, and then tuck the ends of the wire in under the crystal bead so they will not show.

WASN'T THAT EASY? It's fun to make this ring in different colors, one for each friend!

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