This is a common question asked and it’s worth taking a moment to understand the pros and cons associated with different metals before you embark on your metal stamping adventure.
Many metals can be used for metal stamping projects, however, the choice should be considered carefully as some metals, such as stainless steel and titanium are so hard that they should only be used with specific, professional stamps that are designed for these metals.
Failure to do so could damage your metal stamping tools irreparably.
For the beginner, aluminium stamping blanks are ideal as they are soft, lightweight, naturally hypo-allergenic and a cost effective alternative to sterling silver. They also tend to retain their colour over a time.
Copper is another popular choice for metal stamping; albeit a slightly more robust metal than aluminium, it provides defined stamped impressions and is available plated as well as in traditional copper colours.
Alkeme ™ stamping blanks are a new alternative for metal stamping and are a specially formulated metal alloy that is easy to stamp, tarnish resistant and can be polished to a great shine. It is more scratch resistant than aluminium and a great cost saving alternative to sterling silver.
Pewter is another favourite metal stamping material as it’s relatively soft and can be easily hammered to harden or left plain. It tends to have a slightly grey hue when compared with traditional silver, on account of it being an alloy (blended metal) however this makes it ideal for antique or vintage designs.
Brass (copper and zinc alloy) is an ideal alternative to gold, at a fraction of the price, however, it is a harder material to stamp and is better to try once metal stamping has been mastered.
Sterling silver is the premium quality choice for your metal stamping designs and a malleable metal that holds impressions well. Sterling silver metal stamping blanks are ideal for those with sensitive skin and have a high sheen finish that can be polished and buffed over many years.
We hope you’ve found this information useful and you can view our new range of metal stamping products HERE.
Enjoy!
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