How to Make Copper Stacking Rings at Home Easy Guide

Some jewelry pieces just make you smile the second you put them on. These DIY copper stacking rings are exactly that — simple, pretty, and endlessly mix-and-matchable. I was scrolling through Free People and fell in love with their relaxed, boho ring stacks… so I made my own version with things I already had at home. Yes, really: a little wire, a marker, and basic pliers are all you need.

Free People–inspired copper stacking rings — handmade and glowing with warm copper tones.

This project is beginner-friendly, fast (hello, 15-minute craft!), and totally customizable. Make one minimalist band, a chunky “tube” ring, or a whole hand full of shiny copper stacks.

What You’ll Need

 

Everything you need for your DIY copper stacking rings — just wire, pliers, and a bit of creativity!

• Wire (copper looks gorgeous, but brass or even large paper clips work in a pinch)

  • For thin stackers: ~0.8–1.0 mm (20–18 ga)

  • For sturdier bands/tube style: ~1.5–2.0 mm (16–14 ga)

• Flat-nose pliers

• Wire cutters

• A thick marker or lip balm tube (roughly the size of your finger)

• Fine file or sandpaper (600–1000 grit) for smoothing ends

• Optional: nylon-jaw pliers or a scrap of fabric/leather to pad your tools

Smooth all edges carefully — this step gives your DIY copper ring a professional, comfortable finish.

How to Measure Your Ring Size (Quick & Easy)

Measure your finger easily before shaping your handmade copper ring for a perfect fit.

Wrap a thin strip of paper or sewing thread around the base of your finger. Mark where it overlaps, then measure that length in millimeters — that’s the band length you’ll need. Add 1–2 mm to account for the thickness of the wire and shaping.

Tip: If you have a ring that already fits, slide it onto your marker or mandrel and note the spot. That will be your shaping guide.

Style 1: Minimal Open Stacking Ring

Time: 10 minutes
Look: Delicate, adjustable, perfect for stacking.

1. Cut your wire. Use your measurement + 3–4 mm “grace.”

   
   
   

2. Round the ends. Lightly file each tip so it’s smooth against the skin.

   
   
   

3. Curve the ends. With flat-nose pliers, bend each end inward just a touch — this gives a soft, finished look and prevents pokes.

   Wrap the copper wire around a marker or mandrel to form your first stacking ring.

4. Form the ring. Wrap the wire around your marker/mandrel, overlapping the ends slightly so it stays snug.

   

5. Adjust. Use padded flat-nose pliers to gently refine the circle. Leave a tiny gap so it’s adjustable.

That’s it! One ring down. Make two or three more so you can stack them on different fingers.

Style 2: Chunky “Tube” Ring (Statement Band)

Time: 15–20 minutes
Look: Bold, Free People–inspired, and perfect to mix with delicate stacking rings.

If you love bigger, statement-style rings, this copper tube ring is a must-try. It’s slightly wider, eye-catching, and surprisingly easy to make. The trick is to shape it into a comfortable cylinder that hugs your finger — and if you want, you can even split it into two matching rings!

Step-by-Step

1. Prepare your copper strip or thick wire.
   Cut a piece that matches your finger measurement (add 2–3 mm for shaping). If you’re using a wider strip, it’ll naturally give you that “tube” look.

   
   
   

2. Mark your cutting line.
   Use a fine marker to draw where you’ll cut — this keeps your edges straight.

   

3. Cut and shape.
   Use a small metal saw or fine hacksaw to carefully cut along the line. A vise is helpful but optional; it simply holds your piece steady.

   

4. Split it (optional).
   Want something more wearable? Cut your cylinder into two or more smaller “ring slices.” They look modern, adjustable, and very boho.

   

5. Smooth every edge.
   Use sandpaper or an old nail file to smooth the edges and sides — don’t forget the inside! This step makes the ring comfortable and safe to wear.

6. Refine the shape.
   Place the ring on a marker, mandrel, or round object and gently press with your fingers or padded pliers until the curve feels natural.

   

7. Final touches.
   Give it a soft polish or leave it slightly rustic — copper looks beautiful either way. The more you wear it, the more character it develops.

Result

 

Bold and beautiful! Chunky copper tube rings pair perfectly with delicate stacking bands.

Your twin copper tube rings are ready! Simple, sculptural, and totally handmade. Wear them alone for a minimalist look or stack them with your thinner woven rings for a creative, layered style.

Finishing & Comfort

• Smooth everything. A quick polish with a jewelry cloth or microfiber will make the copper glow.

• Avoid tool marks. Pad your plier jaws with fabric or use nylon-jaw pliers.

• Fit tweaks. Too tight? Gently open the gap. Too loose? Squeeze the ring closed a millimeter at a time.

Wear Them Your Way

Mix and match your copper stacking rings for a modern boho look you’ll love wearing every day.

• Solo & minimal: One thin band on the index or pinky.

• Stacked: Three skinny rings on one finger + a chunky tube ring on another.

• Mixed metals: Copper with a brass or silver band adds dimension.

• Texture play: Leave one hammered, one smooth, one lightly twisted.

Copper Care (Quick Guide)

Copper naturally darkens (that’s patina — and it’s pretty!). If you prefer it bright:

• Polish with a jewelry cloth when needed.

• Keep away from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and bleach.

• Store dry, ideally in a tiny zip bag.

• Sensitive skin? Brush a thin layer of clear jewelry sealant or clear nail polish on the inside of the band; reapply as needed.

Troubleshooting

• My circle isn’t perfect. Go slow: tiny adjustments, re-wrap on the marker, then press gently with padded pliers.

• Ends feel scratchy. Keep filing until smooth, then burnish with a polishing cloth.

• Ring won’t hold shape. Use a slightly thicker wire (one gauge heavier) or shorten the gap.

Quick Safety Note

Cut away from your body, wear eye protection if you’re snipping thicker wire, and keep little wire offcuts out of reach of kids and pets.

Final Thoughts

From wire to wearable art — follow this step-by-step copper stacking rings tutorial to create your own.

There’s something so satisfying about wearing jewelry you made with your own hands. Each ring carries a little bit of your creativity — every twist, curve, and shine tells your story. These copper stacking rings might be simple, but they have that effortless, bohemian charm that goes with absolutely everything.

Once you start making them, you’ll see how addictive it is — one turns into two, then suddenly you have a whole collection to mix and match. They also make sweet, thoughtful gifts (especially when you tell someone, “I made this for you”).

So grab some wire, put on your favorite playlist, and spend a slow afternoon creating.
Because sometimes, the best jewelry isn’t bought — it’s made by you.