Thanks to ImpressArt for sponsoring today’s post; all opinions are my own.
One of my favorite types of crafting to do is metal stamping. It’s such an easy but personal way to create a keepsake either for yourself or to give as a gift! I’ve made lots of stamped jewelry pieces over the years, some with names, some with important dates, and some with textures and images. The one thing I don’t get to do often is stamp longer quotes because they never wanted to fit on my blanks. Recently, though, I got a new alphabet set that changes everything! The Deco Letter Stamps from ImpressArt are just 1.5 mm, half the size of the letter stamps I typically use, which means I can fit a lot more words in the same space! Here’s how I used them to create a personalized pendant…
Materials:
ImpressArt Deco Letter Stamps, Lowercase Alphabet 1.5mm
Metal Stamping Hammer
Steel Stamping Block
Artisan Pewter Round Stamping Blank
Stamp Enamel
Paper Towel or Soft Cloth
Ball Chain and Clasp
Pliers
Silver Jump Ring
How to Create Your Own
Step 1: Choose your saying and plan out your spacing.
Before actually stamping anything, it’s a good idea to write out your phrase and figure out where each word is going to go. Otherwise, you might find yourself running out of space.
Step 2: Stamp your quote.
Spell out your phrase one letter at a time. Personally, I like to start in the middle of a word and work my way out to either side to keep things centered. To do the stamping, just place each stamp where it goes, one at a time, and give it a firm tap with the hammer. This will create an impression in the pewter. The letter stamps are labeled on one side with an imprint of the letter; make sure this is facing you and your letter will stamp right side up. If you like, you can use Stamp Straight Tape to hold your pendant to the block and keep it from moving while you work.
Here’s a look at how my blank looked once the entire phrase was stamped.
Step 3: Fill in the stamped image with Stamp Enamel.
Cover all the letters completely and let it dry for 10-30 seconds, then wipe off the excess with a soft cloth. The enamel on the surface will come off, while the enamel down in the impressions will stay to darken the letters.
Step 4: Add a jump ring and chain.
To open your jump ring, just use pliers to gently twist it open, never pull the ends apart. Attach it to your blank and thread it onto the chain of your choice.
That’s it; your necklace is ready to wear or to give as a gift! I love the way it turned out!
If you’ve never tried metal stamping before, be sure to check out my step by step photo tutorial for beginners with more tips and tricks!
Jeremy Halloway says
Very nice.Thank you for this valuable tips.
Sharon Elleen says
Fabulous information and easy to follow. I love your work! Thanks for sharing.
dancers4life says
Thanks so much!!