{"id":12104,"date":"2020-09-11T09:00:13","date_gmt":"2020-09-11T08:00:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cooksongold.com\/blog\/?p=12104"},"modified":"2021-11-10T08:16:34","modified_gmt":"2021-11-10T08:16:34","slug":"what-is-a-mandrel","status":"publish","type":"buying-guide","link":"https:\/\/www.cooksongold.com\/blog\/buying-guide\/what-is-a-mandrel\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a Mandrel?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>If you\u2019re a fresh face in the jewellery making industry, you\u2019re probably still getting to grips with all the tools you\u2019ll need for your projects.<\/p>\n

Got a lot of questions?<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t worry. We\u2019re here to talk you through one of the most versatile jewellery tools \u2013 the mandrel tool. Predominantly used with rings, discover what a mandrel is, our guide to using a mandrel and the different types available, below.<\/p>\n

What is a mandrel?<\/h2>\n

First things first, what is a mandrel exactly? A mandrel, or triblet<\/a>, is a long, thin jewellery tool<\/a> with a tapered end. Its shape makes it ideal for use in a variety of different metal forming projects. However, mandrels come into their own when shaping or resizing rings. So, whether you need a hand with creating rings from scratch or you\u2019re looking to offer ring resizing as a service, you\u2019ll need to pick up a mandrel tool.<\/p>\n

What is a mandrel used for?<\/h2>\n

So, what is a mandrel used for? There are several different ways you can go about it, including:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Measuring ring size.<\/strong> This is a quick and easy way to gauge a customer\u2019s ring size by using one of their pre-existing rings.<\/li>\n
  2. Creating rings from scratch.<\/strong> A key part of the ring making process is shaping, so mandrels are perfect to help you bend the metal into shape.<\/li>\n
  3. Resizing rings.<\/strong> If a ring is a little on the small side, a ring mandrel can be used to increase the size of the band by at least a couple of sizes.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    How to use a mandrel to create a new ring<\/h2>\n

    The process of using a mandrel tool to form rings is very simple. Once you\u2019ve soldered and pickled the metal, all you need to do is:<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Place the strip of metal on the mandrel so it aligns with the correct size.<\/li>\n
    2. Continuously tap the metal with a rawhide mallet until it starts to take shape.<\/li>\n
    3. Every so often, take the metal off the mandrel to assess the shape, swap sides and continue tapping until it is even on both sides.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      How to use a mandrel to stretch a ring<\/h3>\n

      Now you know how to use a mandrel to shape rings, it\u2019s time to learn how to stretch<\/em> a ring with a mandrel. Just follow these straightforward steps and give it a go yourself:<\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Make a note of the current size of the ring. Then, protecting any stone settings with your finger, place the ring onto the mandrel.<\/li>\n
      2. Hit the back of the ring with a rawhide mallet<\/a> (any other hammer will mark the metal) and continue to do so while directing the strikes downwards.<\/li>\n
      3. Repeat the action on the other side of the ring, frequently swapping sides to guarantee an even stretch.<\/li>\n
      4. Refer to the original size of the ring and keep checking until it becomes the desired size.<\/li>\n
      5. To finish, use a Dremel tool<\/a> with a polishing wheel<\/a> attachment and some rouge<\/a> to enhance the shine.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Different types of mandrel<\/h2>\n

        \"Wooden<\/a>Mandrels can be found in several different styles and are used for a number of different techniques. If you\u2019re looking for a classic mandrel to use with rings, opt for a steel mandrel<\/a> with the sizes engraved on the side. If you\u2019re looking to get creative with your jewellery designs, you can purchase a set of design mandrels<\/a> that come in a selection of different shapes. For more intricate processes such as making settings or connectors, you can find mini round forming triblets<\/a> that are perfect for the job.<\/p>\n

        Now that we\u2019ve covered what a mandrel tool is, how to use a mandrel and the types of ring mandrel you can purchase, it\u2019s time to pick up a selection of your own to support your jewellery making goals. Or, for more tips and advice, head to the Beginner\u2019s Guides<\/a> section of our blog and discover how to take your work to the next level.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":11026,"template":"","categories":[1782],"tags":[1383,30,1775,231,1756],"class_list":["post-12104","buying-guide","type-buying-guide","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-metal-forming-stamping","tag-beginner-jewellery-tools","tag-jewellery-tools","tag-legacy","tag-mandrel","tag-ring-reszing"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\r\nWhat is a Mandrel Tool? | The Bench<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Asking yourself \u201cwhat is a mandrel tool?\u201d and how do you use one? We\u2019ve got you covered in our complete guide. 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