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Ring-A-Day: Star Ring

I know, I know. You’re thinking I’m a Marvel junkie. Avengers, Captain America, Stephen Colbert, the works. No, really, I carved a ring profile that I had no idea what to do with. Then I found the star from our next-door-neighbor’s four-year-old and I applied it to the wax model. It fit perfectly. (It was blue, not gold if you care). I was carving wax and I didn’t care either.

I hadn’t realized that it was a signet ring shape with both Captain America overtones as well as wicca foundations (if you wear it upside down).

In the end, I just love this ring. I want to make lots of them. I’ll put what ever color star sticker you find gratifying in the center. We all have our favorites.

3/365

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Ring-A-Day: Dia de los Muertos

I’ve been thinking about the folks I’ve lost in the last 6 months. Several have left the party too soon. 
I started a Ring-A-Day project and wanted to share the importance of those who’s shoulders I stand upon. I’m not Mexican, so Dia de los Muertos / Day of the Dead may not be something from my culture, but November 1st (All Saint’s Day) and November 2nd (All Souls Day) have always resonated with me being born near these important international holidays recognizing the people who made each of us possible. 
I carve this ring thinking of marigolds in the eyes of each of my family members who have helped shape me.
Thank you.
2/365
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HowTues: Make a token

Create a design for laser cutting.
Laser cut selected token model design in Delrin and mount in mold frame.
Mold sides and retaining bands in place, ready for RTV silicone.
Pour RTV silicone down the side of the mold to prevent large bubbles from forming.
Vacuum mold to remove bubbles.
After the silicone sets, cut mold to release Delrin model.

Inject wax into mold.
Cast wax ready for investment casting in brass, silver, or gold.
Back side.
Front side.
Brass tokens fresh from the investment casting process.
Final MakerBot tokens after removing sprues and polishing.