Metal Makes Great Jewelry: 4 Tips To Get Started In Metal Stamping
Posted on: 13 March 2016
If you're trying to add a new level of creativity to your jewelry making, you should learn how to metal stamp. Metal stamping is a great way to turn ordinary pieces of metal into unique jewelry designs. Before you get started, there are a few things you should know. Here are four tips that will help you get started in metal stamping.
Get the Right Equipment
In order to make the most of your metal stamping, you're going to need the basic stamping equipment. The tools you use will ensure a clean, crisp appearance when you're done stamping. The equipment you'll need can be found at any hobby shop. You'll need the following equipment.
- Steel jewelers block – designed to withstand hard knocks
- Lightweight metal hammer – designed with a flat surface on one side and a claw on the other
- Metal stamps – in assorted sizes and styles
- Rubber non-skid mat – to keep your steel block from slipping
Now Add the Finishing Tools
Once you have your basic equipment, you'll want to add some finishing tools. The finishing tools will help reduce the amount of work you need to do to get the perfect look from your stamps. Here are the finishing tools you'll need.
- Masking tape – to block off the area you'll be stamping
- Fine-tip permanent markers – to color in the stamp marks on your jewelry
- Rubbing alcohol – to remove the excess marker around the edges of the stamp marks
Make Identification Easier
When you're busy working, the last thing you want to do is stop to search for the right stamp. You can make identification easier by marking each stamp using a permanent marker. This is particularly important when working with alphabet or numerical stamps. A simple letter or number identifier on the end of the stamps will help you pick out the one you need quickly and easily.
Hit Once and Move On
The trick to a good stamp is to hit once and move on. Avoid the temptation to strike the same spot more than once. Double-tapping is the worst thing you can do. Double-tap a stamp and you could end up with blurred marks that are permanently embedded on your jewelry. Hit the mark once. If the indentation isn't deep enough, go over it with a permanent marker when you're done.
Stamping is a fun way to add a unique design to your metal jewelry. The tips provided here will help you get the most out of your metal jewelry making. If you're not sure where to gather the metal for your jewelry, simply find a local metal fabricator. They may have scrap pieces available for you to take. Click here to investigate.
Share