DIY project: Rings

All the necessary tools

Have you ever tried to make your own ring? If you have, you've probably noticed that it's no small task. Fortunately there is YouTube! I'm currently in the middle of making a ring, and the cost is pretty minimal; an American half dollar piece (pre 1964), a hammer, a drill, or drill bit and plenty of patients, a file, and a thick metal plate to use as an anvil. It doesn't seem like much, but it works astoundingly well.
The reason for the coin being pre 1964 is because before 1964, quarters, half dollars, and dollar pieces were made with 90% silver. Any coin after that is a tin and copper alloy, which only ends in coppery sadness and despair when you try to make something of it. As a tip, and coin pre 1940, is probably worth more as it is, than it is as a ring, so bear that in mind when choosing a coin.
The process is monotonous and simple; take the coin, roll it between your fingers on the metal plate, and strike it with the hammer right on the edge of the coin. This will slowly mushroom out the edge, and eventually make it into the outside of the ring. Be sure to hit the coin directly on it's edge; if you angle your shot, or mis-strike with the edge of the hammer head, you could end up damaging the coin. It's best to just sit back, hit some tunes, talk with friends, and go nice and slow with the project.
After the hard work is done, and the band is wide enough to fit over your finger, you take the drill bit, and plug a hole in the coin; trying to keep the hole close to the center. After that, take a round file, and get to work. I suggest a drill bit large enough that you aren't filing forever, but small enough that if you are off to one side of center, you don't damage your ring. From here, you work the inside until it fits the way you want it to, engrave something if you want to, polish it up, and show off your new 50 cent ring.
        I'll be sure to post up a photo of the finished project when I get there. In the meanwhile, here's where I'm at right now.

 

My best advice to you if you want to make a ring like this: YouTube it.