Categories: Jewelry; Projects and equipment
Word count/read time: 385 words; 2 minutes
Ideas can hit at any time. They often solve a current problem
with new tech, processes, or innovation. Some cures are elusive;
the longer the problem exists the less likely it is to find a
solution.
One such device for me was (is) the jump ring stretching tool.
It would be invaluable and almost exclusively for
loop-in-loop
chains. A simple way to mimic it is to put the ring around the outside of
round nose pliers and spread it to shape.
The ring must remain centered to prevent a pregnant whale thing.
With the best intentions this method is marginal
so I made fixtures to get the best result.
All efforts now should focus on development of the mega-jig, the one that does it all.
Considering how many rings are in some chains, with each
link required to be a perfect replica, it's a time toilet
under optimistic conditions.
Literally years later (today) the solution came to me.
At least for part of the tool.
Perhaps it's still not ready, something else to solve.
Wait. This design could multi-task for sure!
It would only take a little bit of planning.
Therein lies the problem. You want a tool for specific things, then build
in some versatility to work for multiple scenarios, great.
Then see endless possibilities with a few more tweaks.
Then it spirals down a rabbit hole.
How much time is spent in this limbo? Just finish the "lesser" version
already! Make V2 later. If time isn't a concern then what's the rush? This has been going
on for how many years - does it matter if it languishes a while longer?
Yes, but only if the tool reveals its remaining secrets.
Ring stretching is just one process. The other ones can be
summarized like this:
- 15+ sizes for the ends
- Center, align and support ring as it is stretched
- Control starting and stopping positions/limits
- Squeeze/pinch wherever needed
- Bend or pre-shape
Further, these systems must work together yet be
independently adjustable in every direction. Rings will
be 3/16" inner diameter and larger using 0.40mm wire and thicker.
It's also important to consider working with more complex shapes.
Otherwise it's essentially the same as
what I have or can make. Which will work, but a better way is at hand.
Posted by M: October 22, 2023
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2024
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Jump Ring Stretcher
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