It can be disappointing when an heirloom piece of jewelry doesn’t fit quite like you imagined. But don’t worry! This guide will give you some practical DIY methods on how to make a ring smaller.
We’ll cover at-home techniques as well as go over the steps you need to take to get your rings professionally resized at a jewelry store. Let’s get your ring to fit just right!
Should My Ring Be Resized?
It’s a common dilemma—you love your ring, but sometimes it just doesn’t feel right on your finger. Before rushing to resize, let’s look at some common fit factors to determine if you really need to resize.
Temperature
Rings can fit differently depending on the temperature inside and outside. Cold weather may cause your fingers to shrink slightly, while heat can make them swell. If your rings feel loose or tight only during extreme temperature changes, that could be a temporary issue, and they might not need resizing.
Time of Day
Did you know your fingers tend to change throughout the day, especially in the heat or after meals? If your rings fit well most of the time, but only feel snug after a big meal or during hot weather, they may not need resizing.
Seasonal Changes
Similar to temperature effects, seasonal changes can affect how your rings fit. Do they fit a bit snugly in the summer but just fine in the winter? That’s actually pretty common, and you may not need to resize.
Weight Fluctuations
If you’ve recently gained or lost weight, your ring size may have changed. It’s a good idea to determine if this change is temporary or permanent before seeking a permanent solution to the problem!
Medication
Certain medicines can also affect your ring size. If you’re on a new medication and you notice your rings feeling tighter, that may be a temporary thing and your fingers should go back to normal once your finished with the drug.
Ultimately, the decision to resize should prioritize your comfort and the security of your ring. If it spins excessively, slips off easily, or feels uncomfortably tight even under normal conditions, resizing is likely the best solution.
How to Make Rings Smaller—DIY Method
If you’re not ready to commit to having your rings professionally resized (though we definitely recommend that you do!) there are still a couple of tricks to making your ring fit more comfortably.
The most common DIY method for making rings smaller is to use a ring adjuster.
Ring adjusters are convenient and inexpensive solutions to resize your jewelry without permanently altering its size. They can be found online, or at craft stores. Here’s how you can use a ring adjuster:
- Choose the right adjuster: Select a ring adjuster that matches the width and style of your ring band. Ring adjusters are typically made of silicone or metal coils.
- Insert the adjuster: Carefully slide the ring adjuster onto the inside of your ring band. Position it so it fits snugly on your finger.
- Trim if necessary: If the adjuster is too long, use scissors to trim any excess material. Make sure the adjuster is securely placed without overlapping.
- Test fit: Put the ring on your finger to check the fit. Adjust as needed by moving the adjuster slightly until the ring feels comfortable and secure.
Resize Your Ring With A Professional Jeweler
Of course, the best route for resizing rings is choosing a reputable jeweler who has an on-site jewelry repair shop to handle your precious rings. Here’s how it works:
Your jeweler will start with an evaluation.
Every piece of jewelry is unique, and so is the approach to resizing. Some rings may need a slight adjustment while others may need a more significant size change. An excellent jeweler will offer custom solutions tailored to preserve the ring’s original design and integrity.
Then, the resizing begins.
Using advanced techniques and tools, the jeweler will carefully resize your ring to achieve the perfect fit while maintaining its aesthetics and durability. Believe it or not, there’s a lot of physics involved in sizing a ring, so an experienced jeweler is key!
Perform a quality check.
After resizing, you and your jeweler should conduct thorough quality checks to make sure that your ring fits your finger correctly, the stones haven’t gotten loose in the process, and the gold is smooth and polished. A professional jeweler will meet these high standards of craftsmanship.
How To Care For A Resized Ring
Once you’ve found your perfect fit, your new goal is to maintain it! Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your jewelry dazzling and bright after the resizing process.
Clean your engagement ring regularly.
Gently scrub your ring with a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap (like Dawn) to remove dirt and oils. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid using chemicals while wearing your ring.
Remove your ring before using household cleaners, harsh chemicals, or swimming in chlorinated water to prevent damage to the metal and gemstones.
Have professional cleanings and maintenance.
Visit a jeweler every six months (just like your dentist!) for a professional cleaning and inspection to check for loose stones, worn settings, or signs of wear.
Store your jewelry properly.
Store your jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches and shield it from dust and pollutants when not in use.
Resize again as needed.
Consult a jeweler for resizing options if your jewelry no longer fits comfortably due to weight changes or seasonal fluctuations.
How to Make a Ring Smaller—Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my ring smaller at home?
Using a ring adjuster, or applying temporary solutions like tape or string, can help. But for the best results, be sure to visit a professional jeweler.
How to fix a ring that is too big?
Consider taking it to your local jewelry store to have it resized or try using a ring adjuster!
How to tighten a loose ring?
You can use sizing beads, apply adhesive dots inside the band, or consult a jeweler for professional tightening solutions.
Resize Your Ring with Scott’s Custom Jewelers
Ready to give your ring the perfect fit? Scott’s Custom Jewelers can give your jewelry the chance to shine and dazzle just right on your finger!
With state-of-the-art jewelry repair equipment and three goldsmiths and jewelers with more than 45 years of combined experience, Scott’s is the best place to bring your ring for resizing.
Book a consultation and let’s find the perfect fit for your ring!