How to Metal Stamp
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![Tool Image](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/materials/TechniquePagesAssets-BasicMetalSTamping-2.jpg)
Tools & Supplies
optional tools
- Stamp Enamel Marker™
- Simple Strike Jigs™
- Two-Hole Screw Down Punch
- Paper Towel or Clean Rag
Note: Always hold the metal stamping hammer in your dominant hand. Use your non-dominant hand to pick up and hold the metal stamps.
![Step 1](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/techniques/Basic-Stamping_1.png)
Step 1
Place blank on stamping block.
Important: Make sure stamping block is on a hard, sturdy surface.
Tip: Secure blank to stamping block using tape or stamp guide to prevent blank from moving while stamping.
![Step 2](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/techniques/Basic-Stamping_2.png)
Step 2
Use a stamp guide to evenly space out letters and align stamp impressions.
Tip: Write desired message directly onto the stamp guide and utilize the guideline marks for spacing.
![Step 3](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/techniques/Basic-Stamping_3.png)
Step 3
Hold stamp at a 90-degree angle on the stamping blank.
Tip: If the stamp has an ImpressArt® logo on the shank, make sure it is facing you to ensure that the impression is stamped in the correct direction.
![Step 4](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/techniques/Basic-Stamping_4.png)
Step 4
Lightly drag stamp towards the corresponding mark on the guide until the stamp catches the edge of the guide.
Note: Be careful not to scratch the stamping blank when dragging the stamp.
Tip: Slightly tilt the stamp towards you while dragging the stamp towards the guide. Hold the stamp flat and firmly in place before striking the stamp.
![Step 5](https://www.impressart.com/media/wysiwyg/techniques/Basic-Stamping_5.png)
Step 5
Hold the stamp flush and firmly in place by applying a little bit of pressure and anchoring the side of your hand on your workspace. Strike the stamp once with medium force using metal stamping hammer. Repeat to complete desired word, message, or quote. Remove stamp guide and tape.
Note: Harder metals and stamps with more detail require a harder strike than softer metals and stamps with less detail.
Optional Steps
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To make impression stand out, highlight with Stamp Enamel Marker™
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To make perfect stamped impressions and protect fingers, use Simple Strike Jigs™
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To add piercings to stamping blanks, use the Two Hole Screw Down Punch