Can I Make My Own Wedding Ring?
People are always surprised when I tell them what I do for a living. I say that I help couples make their own wedding bands and they respond the same way. “Isn’t that hard?” they ask. “Isn’t it dangerous?”
I reassure them that no, it isn’t hard and yes, it’s a little bit dangerous but as long as you use common sense — a.k.a. don’t stick your hand in the acid — you’ll be fine.
Don’t believe me? I’m used to that but let me assure you: Anybody can do this.
How hard is the workshop?
When you schedule a workshop at Ringed, I’ll walk you through every step. In fact, before we ever light a torch or touch a piece of metal, I’ll hand you a step-by-step guide on what to expect during our time together. Every step on the guide — nine in all — has an illustration and short description of what we’ll be doing.
During the workshop, I’ll be right there with you as together, we create your rings. I’m familiar with the process of teaching people of all levels and abilities; before I started Ringed, I taught at Oregon College of Art and Craft. Part of my work included teaching metalsmithing to teenagers.
Believe me, if I can teach teens how to safely handle a blowtorch, I can teach you.
To get a sense of what to expect, here is the step-by-step breakdown of my one-day wax carving ring process:
How long does the workshop take?
Plan to be at the workshop for four to six hours. This time can vary and I’ll be sure to communicate with you ahead of the workshop if I expect it to run long.
Six hours might sound like a long time but many of my couples tell me that the workshop flew by. Time and again, I hear how the workshop was one of their favorite parts of wedding planning.
Why? They’re relieved by how much quality time they got to spend together. It’s a window of time where they’re working on their wedding but not having to plan anything or worry about logistics. They just get to be, making something and having fun together.
How far out do I need to plan to do a Ringed workshop?
Because of the nature of my work, please plan for at least six weeks between your workshop and your wedding date. I know, I know. That will be a disappointment to some but I want to make sure that we have adequate time to get the materials you and your partner need to make the rings that you want.
Why I do what I do
I’ll never forget the moment that I decided to start Ringed.
My now-husband and I were on our way back from our very first trip together. I was standing on the deck of the ferry back from San Juan Island, looking out on the water when, with such clarity, I realized that I needed to be surrounded by love.
In this life, we can have so many tumultuous things going on but if I can be in the studio, share this craft with couples, and help them have a moment together, that seems like such a phenomenal and worthwhile life to me.
I hope you’ll join me.