Tools for DIY Metal Stamping
Do you know what amazes us about pieces of jewelry?
It is how the impressions are properly handcrafted. This is one of the ways experienced buyers can tell the difference between top-notch products and average or below par ones.
The way the impressions are stylishly and flawlessly made determines the value of the product to a large extent. Of course, this is asides from the texture and quality of the metal that is stamped.
In this article, we will be discussing some tools DIYers need to know to make the most of the stamping technique. This is regardless of the technicality of the handcrafted impression you are making.
However, several companies render custom metal stamping services if you prefer to work with experts.
We strongly recommend this if you are not given to frequently making metal stamp items, or if you are faced with a project that is more than you can handle. Having established this, let us briefly go over what this technique is all about.
What Is Metal Stamping?
This comprises of forming techniques used to make custom-shaped metals from a raw flat state. Some of the methods used to achieve this include any or a combination of techniques such as – bending, blanking, punching, piercing, and several others.
Tools Used for Metal Stamping
This rather complicated process is required to be precise and void of mistakes. As a result, there is a need for the right tools to achieve this. Some of the tools needed to make a DIY metal stamped product with the right impression include:
Hammer
You cannot afford to settle for just any hammer. The chosen hammer must be able to drill impressions without adversely affecting the looks and texture of the item worked upon.
Also, noise pollution is something that you should consider. On that note, getting a brass hammer is one of the best options.
Blocks for Stamping
Blocks can be described as the work surface. They are important as stamping on an uneven or rough surface can badly affect the overall look of the item. This is especially at the opposite end as it stops the metal from bouncing awkwardly.
Therefore, you should work with the right block. Considering that there are various options available, you should use one that best suits your need.
You may even choose to use more than one at the same time. For example, the steel and rubber bench block. For more information on bench blocks used for stamping, you can check out this video.
Hole Punch
This tool is used to drill holes into the item worked on. The drilled hole can serve an aesthetic purpose or act as a handle for attaching the metal to a chain.
To get the hole drilled, there are two kinds of hole punches we have observed. The first is something that looks and works like a paper puncher pliers.
To use it, you have to identify the part that needs to be punched. Afterward, you fit that part in between the hole punch and press tightly. The essence of holding firmly is to ensure that the metal does not slip away, getting an unexpected place punched.
The second hole punch we have observed works like a vice. It has two ends, one of which you can screw and unscrew. To use this option, you are to make sure the tool is unscrewed first. This is so that you can fit the metal into the appropriate part of the hole punch.
After it is fitted in, the next step is to screw the tool right above the chosen spot. You can then unscrew after drilling.
We strongly recommend the latter option if you are finding it hard to choose between both hole punches explained here. This is because of the ease of use and the flawless holes it makes.
Compared to the first option, the chances of having unwanted ring marks and sharp edges around the drilled hole are little or none. So, the vice-styled punch hole is the perfect option in our opinion.
You must drill holes using the right tool to avoid damaging the item. This is especially for delicate metals such as aluminum.
If you want to know more about stamping especially from a large scale production stance, you can visit: https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/custom-manufacturing-fabricating/understanding-metal-stamping/
Conclusion
Are you interested in making handcrafted metal stamps products yourself?
If your answer is in the affirmative, then you should be concerned about using the right tool for the right tasks. In this article, we have touched upon some important tools and hope that you use them when you are about to carry out your project. By so doing, you are more likely to have a smooth job.