Beginner looking to start sand casting rings at home

Hey everyone!

I’ve been researching ring-making and I want to start crafting my own pieces. Sand casting seems like the technique that best fits my goals and budget right now.

I’ve asked around and used AI for some basic info, but honestly, I don't fully trust AI answers for hands-on stuff like this and prefer advice from people who have actual experience and have gone through the trial and error themselves.

I have a few specific questions before buying anything:

* **Indoor Setup & Safety:** Is it feasible/safe to do basic sand casting in a well-ventilated living room, or is a torch/molten metal setup completely out of the question indoors without a heavy-duty fume extractor? * **Getting Started:** What are the absolute essential tools and materials I need to buy first to get a working setup without overspending? * **Suppliers:** Do you have any recommendations for good suppliers for sand/clay (Delft clay, etc.), flasks, torches, and metals? * **Beginner Advice:** Any tips or common mistakes you wish you knew when you first started?

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience! :D