Here are some tips for getting a good impression with larger stamps from
@dangbravegirl - “My normal stamping setup consists of a super sturdy surface and heavy foundation (I can't stress that enough) with a piece of non-skid material between 2 bench blocks (larger one on the bottom). My everyday stamping hammer is a 8oz stubby because I like the fit in my hand and the control I have but when I got my new makers mark stamps the biggest one is 20mm and my trusty little guy wasn't cutting it. After some trial and 'fun' I pulled out a 2.5 sledge from Harbor Freight and had fair results but one more trick I found really helped was putting a thin piece of leather under my metal. You wouldn't think that would work but it did! This also protects my stamp from going through thin metal and being ruined! With larger stamps, tilt your stamp ever so slightly towards you on the metal, when you strike with the hammer you will get a good 'bite' in the metal, this is your 'come back to' place, a spot to recenter should you need to. Next tilt the stamp very slightly away from you, while maintaining position, and give it a good whack. You should have a pretty good start and base impression now and your next whack or two can be straight up and down from the top. Feel free to check your impression, if you've given it good enough hits you should be able to feel your way back into place with your stamp should it need another hit. I have gotten to where I can feel how well my impression is and the cushion of the leather also gives in and the metal starts to come up around the stamp very slightly, indicating your success. I can also rock my stamp around while hitting to ensure I'm getting every detail of these bigger stamps. Imagine hitting the top at 12, 3, 6 and 9 (like a clock). The best advice is the same for any stamping...sturdy work surface, anneal if necessary and practice, practice, practice. Your technique will develop quicker than you think! Don't give up, metal stamping can add a whole other level to your work! Have fun!” Thank you so much for sharing this with us! Would love to hear other techniques as well!
#metalsmithsociety #makingjewelry #jewelrystamping
