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How Do You Reshape Metal Sunglasses?

Published in Eyewear Care 3 mins read

Reshaping metal sunglasses involves carefully bending the frame, often with gentle pressure.

Reshaping Metal Sunglass Frames

Here's how to approach reshaping metal sunglass frames, incorporating insights from the provided YouTube reference:

Steps for Reshaping

  1. Identify the Problem Area: Determine where the frame is bent or needs adjustment. Common issues include uneven arms, a crooked nose bridge, or a general misalignment.
  2. Apply Gentle Pressure: Carefully bend the metal frame in the desired direction. Use your fingers or a small tool for a more precise adjustment.
    • Example: If an arm is bent inwards, gently apply pressure outwards. If the bridge is crooked, adjust it to align with the frame's original design.
  3. Use a Cold Water Rinse: After making the adjustment, run the reshaped area under cold water. According to the referenced video, this helps to "harden" any plastic components and prevent the frame from slowly bending back to its original shape.
    • This step is crucial to maintain the new shape of your glasses.

Additional Tips and Considerations:

  • Avoid Force: Be gentle to prevent cracking or breaking the frame, especially near soldered joints.
  • Small Adjustments: Make small adjustments gradually to avoid over-correcting the frame.
  • Professional Help: If the damage is severe or if you feel uncomfortable reshaping your glasses, consider consulting an optician.
  • Material Considerations: While the video references plastic hardening from cold water, metal frames don't harden, but any plastic on the frame like temple tips will be more easily molded by heat then cooled with water for better shaping.

Practical Insights

  • Heat for Adjustment: If the metal is particularly stiff, consider using a hairdryer on a low heat setting for a short period to slightly warm the metal, making it more pliable. Be cautious not to overheat.
  • Tooling: Small pliers with soft tips can assist with precise bends, preventing scratches or damage. You can also use special optical pliers designed for frame adjustment.

Table Summary

Step Description Notes
1. Identify Problem Area Pinpoint the specific area that needs reshaping. Look for bends, misalignment, or unevenness.
2. Gentle Bending Carefully apply pressure to bend the metal. Use fingers or tools; avoid excessive force.
3. Cold Water Rinse Run adjusted area under cold water to set plastic Important to maintain the new shape.
4. Professional Assistance Seek an optician for severe damage or if uncomfortable doing it yourself. They have the tools and expertise.

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