How to Open and Close Jump Rings Properly

I am providing some tips for the proper way to open and close jump rings. By paying attention to proper technique’s for opening and closing jump rings you’ll be able to produce a quality piece of jewelry. Care must be taken when opening and closing jump rings to prevent scratching or putting gouges on the jump rings. Deep gouges will not come out of your jump rings with tumbling. Below I will give examples that will help eliminate the jump rings from scratching your skin or snagging on clothing.

1. Photo A is an improper way of holding your jump ring. This grip will cause the jump ring to warp or twist out of shape. Photo B is the proper way to hold your jump ring and gives you much more control. Keep the tips of your pliers close to the opening . Keep a firm grip on your jump ring with your pliers to prevent scratching the jump ring.

2. Photo C is the proper way to open a jump ring. Your pliers are near the opening giving you control to open the ring by turning in the direction of the arrows gently. Care must be taken to prevent scratching your jump ring with your pliers.

3. Photo D above show’s the proper way to close a jump ring. Here you will close the jump ring by moving your pliers in the direction of the arrows pushing your pliers inward slightly to eliminate the gap in the jump ring. You should hear your jump ring click, as the ends come into contact with each other. A properly closed jump ring will have a hard to notice line where the ends come together.