Mandrels and ring sizers

A mandrel is a steel form over which a piece is curved or fitted. The ring one is a cone graduated in sizes.

Ring mandrel #

A steel cone with a scale (in EU or US sizes). It is used to curve the band, check its size and round it after soldering.

Finger sizer #

A set of sample rings (sizers) used to measure the customer's finger. See how to find your size.

Other mandrels #

Bangle (oval), pendant and for making rings and spirals.

Use #

Strike the metal over the mandrel with a rawhide mallet so as not to mark it.

How to use the ring mandrel #

Slide the band onto the thin end as far as it fits and check the size on the engraved scale. To round a band after soldering, tap it with a rawhide mallet while turning it on the mandrel; never with a metal hammer.

Bangle mandrels and others #

The bangle mandrel is oval and is used to shape bangles and cuffs. Pendant mandrels are round and tapered; coiling mandrels have different diameters for making jump rings and springs.

Measuring the finger #

Finger sizers are sample rings of each size. Measure at the end of the day, with the finger at normal temperature, and check that the sizer passes the knuckle with a little resistance. See how to find your size.

See also #

• Bending, curving and twisting metal
• Ring resizing
• How to find your ring size (with conversion chart)