How to Make a Ring From Cast-off Copper Pipe

Copper makes a great material for jewelry making as it is pliable enough to cut and carve easily, but sturdy enough to wear every day. With a few simple tools and some simple instructions you can hand craft your own jewelry to make a ring from a plain piece of copper tubing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/4 inch copper piping
• Pipe cutting tool
• Hack saw
• Metal file
• Fine grain sandpaper
• Copper or brass polish
• Etching tool
• Clear fingernail polish

1. Cut a piece of copper pipe the width that you would like your ring. 3/4-inch piping will make a ring that is about a size 9 or 9.5. For easy cutting, use a pipe cutting tool; however, you can also use a hack saw, but be careful to cut in a straight line.

2. Adjust the ring for larger or smaller sizes if you cannot wear a size 9 or 9.5. Use your hack saw to cut across the width of the pipe in two places, removing a few centimeters as needed for fit. You can then leave the ring open on the bottom size and adjust to fit.

3. Use a metal file to smooth out the edges of your ring. Make sure that you work around the inside and outside edges of the ring to create a smooth rounded edge. This will ensure a comfortable fit and prevent injury.

4. Sand your ring with fine grain sandpaper to remove any scratches or corrosion in the copper. You can also use copper or brass polish to give it extra shine. At this point, if desired, you can use an etching tool to create designs in your ring, or leave plain for a simple band.

5. Finish your copper ring by coating the inside with two thin even layers of clear fingernail polish. Copper, when exposed to moisture, can cause your skin to turn green. The fingernail polish will prevent an unsightly green band around your finger. Make sure that each coat of polish dries completely before adding more or wearing your ring.