How to Make a Stunning Split Shank Silver Ring: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Video

METALSMITHING TUTORIALS
Written By Shalena White

Both beginners and advanced silversmiths can craft this simple yet stunning design. The fabricated ring is pictured here pre-polish.

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to make a split shank ring but aren’t sure where to start? This classic jewelry design is easier to make than you think and accessible to metalsmiths of all skill levels. In this tutorial, I'll guide you through the entire fabrication process. I cover all the techniques and tools needed to create a professional-looking ring. By the end, you’ll know how to make your own stunning sterling silver ring.

FOR THE FULL TUTORIAL, WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW.

*But first, let’s gather all the necessary tools.

PART 1 TOOL CHECKLIST: PREPPING THE SHANK

Part 1 Tool Checklist: Prepping the Ring Shank

Part 1 Tools: Prepping the Shank

PART 2 TOOL CHECKLIST: SOLDER PREP

Part 2 Tool Checklist: Solder Prep

Part 2 Tools: Solder Prep-Sanding

PART 3 TOOL CHECKLIST: FORMING & SOLDERING

Part 3 Tool Checklist: Forming & Soldering

Part 3 Tools: Forming

Part 3 Tools: Soldering

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary tools follow along with the video below to create your own sterling silver split shank handmade ring from scratch using my step-by-step, detailed instructions.

Learn the art of silversmithing and create a simple, stunning sterling silver split shank ring from scratch! In this video, I'll guide you through a step-by-step process for crafting a beautiful split shank ring using sterling silver double half-round wire. This tutorial is ideal for anyone seeking to refine their metalsmithing skills. So, get ready to unleash your creativity, get your jewelry-making hat on, and make your own silver ring from scratch!

SHALENA WHITE

Multidisciplinary metalsmith artist and educator Shalena White has a mission to inspire and empower metalsmiths to create with resilience and have fun doing it. Her YouTube channel, Shalena White Studios, provides educational content and inspiration for enthusiasts of metalsmithing and jewelry-making.

Shalena White

Interdisciplinary artist, Shalena White creates handmade art in many forms, including abstract watercolor paintings, intricate architectural adornments, finely crafted metal & gemstone art jewelry, found object sculpture, and artistic clothing & accessories. Shalena’s mission is to bring more beauty & joy into the lives of her clients and to create art that embodies a deep sense of reverence for the natural world. In 2014, she graduated Magna Cum Laude with her MFA in Metals from the University of Texas at Austin. In 2009, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BFA specializing in Metals/Jewelry from Texas State University.

In 2014, she was awarded People’s Choice by popular public vote for Austin City Hall's yearly competition at People's Gallery. Mountain Laurel Mandala II is now included in the city of Austin's permanent art collection. She was also awarded the Austin Chronicle's 2011 Best of Austin Critic’s Pick Award for Best Stunning Adornments.

Recent exhibitions include Shalena White, solo exhibition, Texas State University, 2019; Repurposed at ICOSA, 2019; Craft Texas 2014, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft; Pool, MFA thesis exhibition, UT Austin Visual Arts Center; 10th Anniversary 2014 People’s Gallery Exhibition, Austin City Hall; Echoes of Form, three-person exhibition, UT Austin Visual Arts Center; Craft Texas 2012, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.

Shalena is currently living in Austin and pursuing multiple artistic interests including community-based, public art projects.

https://www.shalenawhite.com
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