Metal is a durable and long-lasting material, which makes it perfect for creating tags that you want to last over time. Stamping flat metal tags can be a great way to add a sentiment, important information, or a decorative design to your metal.
Here are three tips that you can use to ensure you are able to successfully stamp a design into your metal flat tags in the future.
1. Make sure the surface of your flat metal tag is completely clean.
Before you begin the stamping process, you will want to ensure that you are working with a clean surface.
Many flat metal tags are coated with with a metallic plating that help them retain their luster over time. If you use a polishing cloth, you may remove this plating. Try using a soft cloth that has been dampened with warm water to wipe the surface of your flat metal tag clean before stamping. This will preserve the integrity of the tag while removing any dirt particles that could negatively affect the quality of your stamped image.
2. Hold your hammer correctly.
In order to create a clean stamped image on your flat metal tags, you need to ensure that you have maximum control over your tools throughout the stamping process. This means learning to hold your hammer correctly.
You want to grip the hammer as close to the head as possible. This will give you the ability to make a clean, low-impact strike as you pound the die you are using to stamp an image onto your flat metal tag. Holding your hammer correctly ensures that your finished image will be clear and crisp.
3. Make sure your tag is secure before stamping.
To prevent your flat metal tag from shifting during the stamping process, you will want to secure it to a hard surface before you begin. This can be done by using a piece of durable tape across the top and the bottom of the tag.
The tape will leave the area you want to stamp exposed while preventing the tag from moving as you strike it with the stamping die. A flat metal tag that remains firmly in place will allow you to create a clean and crisp outline with your metal stamp.
Being able to successfully stamp designs onto flat metal tags provides you with the opportunity to take advantage of the versatility these tags can offer. Be sure you clean your tag before stamping, hold your hammer properly, and secure the tag in place with some tape to make your next metal stamping project a success.
If you have questions, contact a professional like Hub Manufacturing & Metal Stamping.
