How to Engrave the Head & Coin Sides of a Cane
For most cane users, a cane is a crucial part of every day living that aids in movement and balance. For this reason, personalizing a wooden cane can be special and sentimental; however, it can also be expensive. While having a professional carve your cane is recommended for best results, the prices can reach triple digits. There are ways you can make engravings yourself as long as you take the right precautions, and use the right tools.
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Instructions
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The Sunlight Method
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Choose a sunny, cloudless day to do this engraving, and use only unfinished wood canes. Press the aluminum tape across the area on the cane which you're carving. Smooth it flat so there are no wrinkles or bubbles.
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With the razor, carefully cut the desired pattern out of the aluminum tape. Be sure to cut all the way through the aluminum before peeling away the cut tape. After the tracing is removed, there should be about 3 mm to 4 mm of exposed wood. Double check that remain tape is pressed securely to the cane.
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Using the magnifying glass, concentrate beams of light into the exposed wood tracing. Start from the edges of the pattern and work toward the center, ensuring all wood is darkened evenly. Once burning is finished, remove the aluminum tape and the cane is complete.
Using A Handheld Engraver
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Fully charge the handheld cutter and read the instructions thoroughly to ensure complete knowledge of the tool before using.
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Lightly trace the desired pattern on the cane using pencil or ink. Be sure the wood is clear of anything that might inhibit the engraver, such as dirt or debris.
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Using slow, fluid movements, work the engraver over the pattern. Be sure to use smooth movements so that the depth and width of grooves is consistent. When finished, brush away any shavings and sand rough edges if needed.
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Tips & Warnings
If the aluminum tape leaves any residue on the cane, clean it off with a soft damp cloth.
Use caution when handling an electric engraver. Wear proper safety gear for hands and eyes.
References
- Photo Credit BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
