Starting Position of Wrap for Ring Shanks

by Dale Armstrong
Question:

Hi, when wrapping the shank or a ring, do you have to always start the wrap in the middle or can you start on either side working down and around?
Instructions
Answer:

The way you choose to wrap a ring shank depends entirely on your personal style.

I rarely start a full shank wrap from the center and work outward, because the first wrap often ends up loose. When that initial center wrap sticks out, there's no way to fix it after the whole shank is wrapped.

Instead, I prefer to begin at one side and wrap all the way around the shank.

Some designs do require a center-start wrap, usually to support a specific visual or structural detail. In those cases, starting in the middle is necessary.

If I ever underestimate the length of wrap wire and it doesn't reach around the full shank, I have two options:
I either remove a few wraps from the beginning to make both sides match,
or, if the shank is wide (such as four wires), I add a second wrap wire by butting it snugly against the end of the first.

It's hard to predict the exact length of wrap wire you'll need. With experience, you'll get a feel for how much to cut based on the ring size and shank width.

Always cut slightly more than you think you'll need.

Even a leftover 1-2 inch piece of half-round wire will come in handy for future projects.

Answer contributed by Dale `Cougar` Armstrong

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  • Category: Design
  • Technique(s): Wrapping, Design