Jewellers are always looking for ways to add movement and character to their designs. One increasingly popular tool for achieving unique textures is the wave press. Designed to create undulating patterns in bangles and rings, wave presses allow you to transform flat or smooth strips of metal into dynamic, flowing designs with consistent precision.
A wave press is a specialised forming tool that uses shaped dies to apply pressure to metal strips or rings. Instead of hammering or freehand texturing, the press uses consistent force to create even, repeating wave patterns along the metal’s length.
Take a look at the wave press in action with Kelly from Willow & Twigg (opens Instagram):
How to Use a Wave Press
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Prepare the Metal: Solder your ring or bangle together as normal.
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Set the Die: Choose the wave profile you want and align it in the press.
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Insert the Metal: Place the strip between the dies.
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Apply Pressure: Tighten the screw or operate the hydraulic press, working gradually across the strip.
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Check Progress: Release the pressure, reposition if needed, and repeat until the wave pattern is complete.
- Re-Anneal as Necessary: Hardening occurs during pressing; anneal again if resistance increases.
Top Tip: Adding the waves makes the ring or bangle slightly smaller. Make it 1-2 sizes larger to account for this shrinkage.
The wave press is a versatile, innovative tool that adds movement and elegance to bangles and rings. It allows jewellers to create consistent, professional textures with ease, saving time while expanding creative possibilities. View our range of wave presses here.