Make a ring from a coin

What can we use if we don't have a wooden dowel or needle-nose pliers?

Use a rounded permanent marker (wrapped with tape) or a thick wooden paint stick as the dowel to slide the coin onto for sizing, and substitute small locking pliers or jewelry pliers for the needle-nose pliers when you pinch and bend the coin, with an adult supervising.

The coin won't bend or it cracks—what should we do?

If the coin resists bending or cracks while you keep bending a little at a time, stop and try a softer metal coin or have the adult use a larger pair of pliers and bend in smaller increments, then smooth any rough edges with the file or sandpaper before continuing.

How can we adapt the steps for different ages?

For younger kids have the adult handle the pinch-and-bend steps while the child picks the coin, marks the dowel, and decorates with markers or paint, and for older kids let them perform the dowel sizing, gradual bending with pliers, filing, and polishing under supervision.

How can we make the finished ring more special or personalized?

After you buff the ring with the polishing cloth and smooth the edges, personalize it by painting patterns with markers, wrapping thin colored wire around the outside, or gluing on a small flat-backed gem and sealing with a clear coat.