Jewelry Blog

Rings are great to make because they are smaller jewelry projects than something like a necklace or bracelet, and therefor normally take less time and materials. That may be what went through Sharilyn Miller’s mind when she thought to create her DVD ring workshop, Rings of Beauty ($29.95). The DVD is 150 minutes long and covers tools needed (such as a metal ring mandrel and stand), reaming bead holes, resizing rings, polishing and antiquing wire, and of course, 8 ring projects with possible variations.

Sharilyn talks you through as well as demonstrates techniques and projects. One issue I’ve always had with making wire rings is sizing, so I liked how she showed how to properly use the ring mandrel and then also provided some instruction on resizing. This always seem to be a concern with rings more so than most other types of jewelry.

If you’ve wanted to expand your jewelry skills and start making more rings, this DVD is a great way to learn. Obviously, you’ll see that she’s a major pro when it comes to working with wire, but there really is a range of skill level in the ring designs she demonstrates. For example, her pearl wraparound ring, would be a good beginner project, and because you can use all kinds of different beads, you can make a large variety of rings using this same design.