How to make a ring out of a skateboard bearing? [Instant Guide]

Whether you’re a hardcore skater, or just like collecting items with a story, turning a skateboard bearing into a ring can be an incredibly satisfying project.

It’s surprisingly simple to make with minimal materials all you need is the bearing, pliers, needle nose pliers, and a drill which makes it the perfect weekend craft.

The best part is that each ring will be one of a kind shaped by its own history and wear. Therefore, In this article, we’ll explain the basics of turning your favorite bearing into a fashionable ring.

What size is a skateboard bearing ring?

Skateboard bearings rely on precision to keep your board rolling smoothly and efficiently, so it’s important to know the size of a skateboard bearing ring.

Most skateboard bearings have an 8mm inside diameter and 22mm outside diameter. This allows the bearings to fit snugly in the wheel hub and be compatible with the truck axle.

Skateboard bearings also come in several other sizes, but 8mm by 22mm is the most common for typical skateboarding maneuvers.

Knowing what size your skateboard bearing rings are will ensure a smoother ride, higher speed, and better performance all around.

How do I make a ring out of a skateboard bearing?

If you have an old skateboard bearing lying around that you don’t know what to do with, why not make a unique piece of jewelry out of it?

It’s surprisingly easy to make your own skateboard ring, and here will walk you through the steps.

With just a few basic tools and supplies, you can create your own one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry in no time.

Tools You Will Need

To make your own skateboard ring, there are a few essential items that you need. You will need a drill press or hand drill, some sandpaper or a grinding wheel, pliers/wire cutters, a small mandrel or round object (like a dowel rod), and something to straighten the bearing race. All these items can typically be found at any home improvement store. Additionally, you will also need safety goggles to protect your eyes from metal shavings when grinding down the bearing race. 

➮ Step 1: Removing the Bearing Race

Once you have all the necessary tools and supplies ready, it is time to start taking apart your skateboard bearing. The first step is to remove the bearing race from the outside of the bearing. This can be done by carefully pushing it out with pliers or wire cutters. Be careful not to damage the inner part of the bearing as this is what will become your new skateboard ring.

➮ Step 2: Sanding or Grinding Down Bearing Race

Once you have removed the bearing race, it is time to sand it down so that it becomes smaller and more manageable for jewelry-making purposes. To do this, use either sandpaper or a grinding wheel depending on how much material needs to be removed from the bearing race (it should be about half its original size). Wear safety goggles while doing this step as metal shavings may fly off during grinding. 

➮ Step 3: Forming Ring Shape

Once you have sanded down your bearing race to half its original size, now comes forming its new shape a ring shape. To do this, place your mandrel (or round object) inside of the bearing race then gently begin shaping it into a circular form using pliers/wire cutters until it fits snugly around your finger when worn. Make sure not to overwork the material as doing so could cause cracking in the metal when finished wearing it.

What bearings do pro skaters use?

Pro skaters often choose their bearings carefully, as they make a big difference in the smoothness of their ride.

Bearings will determine how quickly and easily the wheels roll across any surface, so it’s important to select the right ones for your skating style. Pro skaters typically opt for bearings with better speed, durability, precision, and less friction.

Many also prefer ceramic bearings for their smoother ride and faster glide. Ceramic bearings also tend to last longer than traditional steel bearings, so pro skaters benefit from them in multiple ways.

Ultimately, taking into account your skating style and the terrain is key when selecting bearings. Choosing the ones that best fit your needs can help you get the most out of your ride and take your skateboarding to the next level.

How do I know if my skateboard bearings need to be replaced?

As a skateboarder, you know that your bearings are an important part of your ride. The wrong bearings could diminish your performance and can even be unsafe. Knowing when it is time to replace the bearings on your board is the key to success.

Fortunately, bearing wear is fairly easy to spot-and there are few steps you can take to ensure they last as long as possible. Below are the steps on how to identify if your current set of bearings needs replacing and what you can do to extend their life.

★ Bearing Noise: The sound of grinding when pushing off on your board is one sign that your bearings need replacing. This is a result of the bearing becoming dirty or worn down over time, which causes friction between the bearing balls and races. It also makes turning more difficult. If you hear any grinding noises coming from your board, it’s probably time for a new set of bearings. However, if the sound doesn’t go away with a few drops of oil or cleaning, then you will need to get new bearings.

★ Sluggishness When Turning: If your board feels sluggish when turning or pushing off, then you may have a bearing issue. Newer bearings feel smooth with little effort needed to turn them; if yours don’t match this description, then they are in need of replacement. The lack of responsiveness could also be due to dirt or debris stuck in the races this means that even if the bearings appear clean while they are outside the wheel, they may still be clogged up inside the race and not spinning freely. If this is the case, then cleaning them won’t help; only replacing them will get rid of this sluggish feeling.                                                       

★ Vibration While Riding: Another sign that indicates worn-down bearings is vibration while riding. If you feel vibrations coming through your feet while riding, it means there is too much play between the axle and its nut on either side of the wheel this play creates a wobbling effect as you roll across uneven surfaces (like cracks in sidewalk) which results in vibration being transferred through your feet as you ride. This problem can be fixed by tightening up these nuts with a skate tool but it may also require replacing worn-out bearings for long-term fixability.

★ Corrosion: Bearings are made from steel, which means they will eventually corrode over time if not taken care of properly. If you see rust or other signs of corrosion on the outside of the bearing, it’s definitely time for a replacement set as soon as possible as corroded bearings will cause friction and slow down your board significantly. Therefore, it’s important to regularly inspect and clean your bearings in order to keep them running smoothly.

★ Broken Shields: The inner seal or “shield” on each bearing is what keeps water and dirt out, so if this seal begins to crack or break off completely then it’s game over for those particular bearings! Once this happens there is no way of fixing them without replacing them entirely so make sure to inspect your shield every once in a while just in case. Respectively, if you ever go swimming with your board make sure to take out the bearings and dry them completely before putting them back in.

Conclusion

Making a ring from a skateboard bearing is an easy and affordable way to show your love for the sport.

All you need are basic tools, access to a drill, and some simple jewelry-making techniques. Follow these steps and you’ll soon have a unique piece of jewelry that was crafted with your own two hands.

Show off your ring proudly and make sure to expect lots of questions from family and friends about how you made such a great-looking accessory.