Making jump rings is a simple process of wrapping wire around a mandrel tightly to make a coil, and then cutting that coil into jump rings. When making small jump rings, the hardest part is holding the wire and mandrel together. Holding two round objects together can be difficult, as they don't like to sit still as they are forced together. So… a simple jig is in order.
- Make a 90° bend in a small sheet of metal.
- Drill a hole in the center of the fold. The hole should be just slightly larger than the wire you will be using to make your jump rings.
- Use a square or triangle file to make a v-shaped groove running vertically down the sheet of metal. This groove should start right underneath the hole.
- Insert your wire through the hole from the outside.
- Place a tiny mandrel (such as a #60 drill bit or similar small piece of steel) in the groove. The groove will hold it in place as you wrap your wire around the drill bit. You can also use tape to hold the drill bit even more securely in place.
- With all of the pieces assembled together, put them into a ring clamp to hold them tightly.
- Now with the wire mandrel (drill bit) and jig secured tightly in the clamp, you can wrap your wire into a tight coil with ease! This works well because you have two flat surfaces securing the mandrel and wire.
Learn More:
David Baird's regularly offered Directed Open Studio class is loaded with great bench tips to guide students through projects with success. This is a great opportunity to finish up work hiding in your bench and get advice on new pieces you've wanted to make.