Stamping question

[CopperTreeArt]

I usually only stamp on 24 gauge but would like something with more substance. Will 20 gauge sterling silver be too thick for a stamp impression to turn out well? Thanks! Happy new year!

[CopperTreeArt]

Also..I bought a 55 lb cast iron anvil from harbor freight. Is this a good thing to stamp on? Is cast iron hard enough or do I really need steel?

[Brightsmith]

Yes, 20 gauge is great for stamping, and iron anvils work just fine (though make sure to keep them clean of rust or they will contaminate your pieces).

[CopperTreeArt]

Thank you!

[Brightsmith]

I didn't think of this until after I posted, but if you have a torch, you should anneal the metal before stamping to get a clean impression.

[CopperTreeArt]

Yes, I have been! Thanks so much for all your help! Happy new year! Love your work!

[Lovethebugs]

I think I have one thing that is stamped and every time I get an order for it I get filled with fear. I don't do much stamping and its intimidating combined with I am not very good at it. I had an order over Christmas, its a 5X1.5MM ring and it needed about 16 characters on it. Those are the orders you send off with a prayer :)

Do you use the 1 hit technique or the many lighter hits while lightly moving the stamp to make sure its crisp on all sides?

I have been polishing my metal before I stamp so I can see the reflection of the stamp to line it up. Its all a learning process for me really. Tommy

[CopperTreeArt]

I use the one hit technique with a one pound brass mallet. I always practice my design before doing it on silver! Can be nerve racking though!

[ArtandArtisan]

Make sure the iron anvil doesn't have rough places that will imprint on your silver. I whack on a stainless steel block.

[CopperTreeArt]

Thanks!

[SugarSidewalk]

Like Kendra I hit it once with a brass mallet. If it's a design stamp I typically use the 2lb.

And I practice on copper sheet until I am sure it's going to be right on the sterling. It can be nerve wracking though…. I have had some tight fits and sweated until the last letter was done :)