Question
Ring and Tie pin
Dear Thomas,
My hobby is making jewelry from wood and metal and sometimes with silver. Now a friend of mine has asked me to make a silver wedding ring with a special piece of wood glued on top of it or even glued in between the ring. Could you advise me what kind of glue to use.
I am from Holland and hope you can give me an answer ASAP.
Kind regards
AnswerDear Margot,
Thank you very much for the fine illustration. The illustration enhances my concept of the ring you are going to make.
The cement I recommend is epoxy cement. This is a two part resin/hardener cement which is mixed prior to application. I suggest a slower curing type, perhaps a 2 hour curing time. To use the quick setting kind does not allow enough time to be certain all is properly secured and in proper alignment. I also believe the slower curing epoxy to be slightly stronger than the quick type. If epoxy does not translate, an Internet search will surely clarify the type of cement.
The cement is in squeeze tubes and is like a syrup. Do NOT use the thick paste type. An American brand which is very good and is colorless is Hughes 330 epoxy. You might want to find that on the Internet to better understand the kind of cement recommended.
Margot, I highly recommend either a small piece of silver folded gently over the wood edge on opposite edges for added security or a pin through the ring and slightly into the bottom of the wood. I believe the mechanical joining will greatly strengthen the tie between the wood and the metal with the epoxy cement as the primary bonding agent.
To use the cement, first try the fitting of the wood and metal. Be certain you will be able to fit the pieces easily when the cement is applied. The ring should be supported to prevent movement while the cement cures. Prior to application of the cement, clean the wood by wiping gently on the contact area to remove any soil or finger oils which will over time interfere with a strong joining. Wipe the silver with alcohol. Now, mix the two parts of the epoxy cement according to package directions. You may use a small piece of wood or other item to mix the cement. Mix the cement on a disposable surface such a part of a small plastic bag or wrapper. Apply the cement with enough to spread to make complete contact with wood and silver. Do not use too much cement or the cement will show to the eye and be quite difficult to remove. Leave the mixing tool on the excess cement. You will check this excess cement to know when all is cured and hard without touching the actual ring.
A low heat as from an electric lamp will speed the cure but is not needed unless you are in a hurry. If warmth is added, expose the mixing surface and excess cement to the heat also.
The wood and metal will need as much contact area as possible for a strong joining.
I do hope this answer is clear in content and meaning. If you need to ask more, please feel free to use a "follow-up" to get back with me.
Best wishes with the project. God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
