How to Metal Stamp Jewelry
- 1). Decide what type of jewelry you want to make and how you want to stamp the design. Consider how the stamped jewelry's shape and the stamped design will interrelate, whether the stamped elements are one or two or several in number. Sketch the design for your jewelry item and measure it to determine the size of charm blanks needed.
- 2). Make or purchase charm blanks for your project. Measure the charm blanks to be sure your stamped design will fit.
- 3). Find the center of the design you plan to stamp on the charm blank. Mark the design's center on the center of the charm blank with a semi-permanent marker. Mark the beginning and end---as well as the top and bottom, if needed---of your design on the blank.
- 4). Place the charm blank on a steel block or anvil.
- 5). Depending on your design, you may want to copy the sketch and cut that into four sections. Each section corresponds to a portion of the charm blank. This is similar to sketching an image on graph paper, for use as a guide for correct sizing and placement of the image's elements when transferring the image to another surface such as a wall or floor. You may also want to divide the charm blank into four sections with a marker as a quick reference aid.
- 6). Use a hammer to hit the steel stamps you'll use to stamp your design. Strike the stamp with the hammer only once. Use a firm stroke. Repeat with the next stamp until the stamped design is complete. If you are using letters, it is easiest to work from left to right.