How to Make an Ankh From Metal
The ankh, or Egyptian cross, is one of the most recognizable of all known heiroglyphic images, featured in some of the most famous ancient Egyptian archeological finds. This symbol now enjoys common use as a fashion accessory. It is also simple enough to render in sheet metal, using basic metal working tools. Make an ankh from whatever type of metal you prefer, depending on how you plan to use it.
Things You'll Need
- Sheet metal
- Grease pencil
- Ruler
- Rotary power tool
- Diamond burr cutting wheel
- Diamond burr grinding bit
Instructions
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1
Draft a tall, vertical rectangle measuring 6-by-1 inches. Draw this on the sheet metal with a ruler and grease pencil.
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2
Draw a second short, horizontal rectangle centered atop the first to form a "T" shape.
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3
Finish the ankh symbol with a 2-by-2 inch tear drop shape at the top-center of the "T." Make this shape a 1/2-inch thick.
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4
Add a small loop at the top of the tear drop shape to later string the ankh as a necklace. If you prefer, you can leave this off and drill a hole through the top of the ankh, or leave it unstrung.
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5
Fit the rotary tool with a diamond bur cutting wheel. Turn it on to a medium speed and cut out as much of the ankh shape as you can. Since the wheel can only cut in straight lines, this will mean some rough edges, especially around the upper, curved portion and inside the top loop. However, remove as much of this material as you can with straight cuts.
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6
Turn off the rotary tool. Switch to a grinding attachment to grind down the rough areas and smooth the outside edge of the ankh shape.
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7
Drill a hole in the top stringing loop, or top center of the ankh with a power drill. Use a bit at least 1/8-inch wide to make a hole large enough to jewelry stringing.
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Tips & Warnings
Ankhs come in many variations of shape and style. If you don't like the shape you get when drafting an ank on your own, find a clip art ankh online.
References
- "The Big-Ass Book of Crafts;" Mark Montano and Auxy Espinoza; 2008
