How to Make a Ring From an Old Spoon

Remember those beautiful silver rings made from spoons that were such a popular trend during the 70's? Well, they are apparently making a big comeback. Have you ever wondered how to make them? Just follow these instructions and you can make a beautiful sterling silver ring for yourself or a friend.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old Silver Spoon
• Hack Saw
• Sand Paper
• Metal Pipe
• Mallet
• String and Ruler
• approximate ring size

1. 
    
   Old Silverware

   The most important step is finding a real sterling silver spoon. Make sure you find a nice decorative spoon for this project to ensure you have a pretty ring in the end. Antique silver spoons make the most interesting rings but any beautiful silver spoon will work well for this project.

2. 
    
   Ball of String

   Professionals will use a ring mandrel to fit the ring. However, since these steps are for the novice, you won't need a mandrel to make your silver ring. Use the piece of string to measure the diameter of your ring finger and cut it to the correct size.

3. 
    
   Ruler

   Measure the string with a ruler or measuring tape. Steps one and two will take the place of the ring mandrel.

4. 
    
   Saw

   Use the hack saw to remove the bowl end of the silver spoon. Make sure the remaining spoon piece is at least as long as the string you measured plus 1/4 inch.

5. 
    
   Sand Paper

   Carefully smooth out the cut edge of the silver spoon with a file or a piece of course sand paper. This step will prevent the cut metal edge from scratching the finger.

6. 
    
   Rubber Mallet

   Use the rubber mallet to lightly tap the remaining silver spoon around the pipe. This will shape the silver into the form of a ring. If you don't have a rubber mallet, substitute using a hammer and a piece of suede to protect the silver.

7. Inspect the silver ring for any other rough edges and clean the ring with a silver polish rag. If you are making the silver ring for yourself, continue shaping the ring with your hands ever so slightly to the perfect size of your finger.

8. 
    
   Silver Spoon Ring

   The end result is a beautiful sterling silver ring. You are now ready to be a trend setter with your hand made jewelry made of high quality silver.

Tips & Warnings

• Again, try to find the prettiest most decorative spoons for this project before you begin. This step will ensure that you have a very nice silver ring in the end.
• A sanding block is easier to use than sand paper, but may cost more money.
• Try making a few of these for yourself, and then make some to sell. It may bring some extra cash for your hobby.
• You can often find old spoons at yard sales from broken sets of silverware.
• Try borrowing a metal detector to use in your yard. you may find some old silver spoons there also.
• Keep your scrap pieces that you have cut off the spoon. They are worth money as the price of silver continues to rise.
• Be sure to use a real sterling silver spoon rather than a stainless steel one. Silver is much prettier and easier to bend.

[wenkrick]

on 8/24/2009 Great idea!

[melissalewis]

on 8/19/2009 How cool! Nicely done - 5*

[mweise]

on 7/23/2009 What a wonderful craft idea! Great article, 5*, bookmarked!

[waters]

on 7/19/2009 Great idea; how to make a ring from an old spoon.

[delawaregeek]

on 6/21/2009 I remember when I was a kid I use to see these all the time. I had completely forgotten about them until I read your how to make a ring from an old spoon article! Thanks for reminding me of these :)