How to Select Metal Crafts

Metal crafting brings to mind pictures of blowtorches, hammers and forges and flying sparks. While professionals find inspiration in these tools, those teaching craft classes or looking for unusual school projects probably are not qualified to use these things, nor would they work in the average classroom. Not to worry. There are many kinds of metal and numerous ways to turn it into decorative and even practical objects.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Tin shears (optional)
• Discarded metal objects
• Hammer and various sizes of nails
• Craft books

Select Metal Crafts

1. Work with used or discarded metal, such as cans or lids, old picture frames, inexpensive coasters (the kind you put drink glasses on) or old toys. These items don't cost anything and you are helping the environment by recycling. Be sure to clean the objects before using them.
2. Define the purpose of the project. Are you making something you can use, such as bowl or a luminary (a kind of lantern)? Are you learning some aspect of decorative art? Are you planning an assignment as an adjunct to academic learning? You goal will influence what you select.
3. Think about who will be doing the project. Metal crafts can be lengthy and difficult and may demand specialized tools. Will there be expense to the participants? Will everyone be able to join in?
4. Make sure your space is adequate. Will it accommodate the entire group and all the materials? Are there surfaces amenable to hammers and nails? Plan ahead and know what you're getting into. Select crafts that fit your time space and budget.
5. Seek out craft instructions for metal work. Take a look at Trashmatcher or browse "Step-By-Step Crafts for Children" by the editors of Kingfisher at Amazon.
6. Remember, if your resources are limited, aluminum foil counts as metal.

Tips & Warnings

• The commonest metal craft is a luminary, a can with a pattern of holes punched out of it and lit from within by a candle. Stencils for luminary patterns are available at most craft stores.
• Metal crafts are not recommended for young children. Children younger that eight (third grade) do not have the dexterity to manipulate metal and tools safely. Even older children need close supervision.
• Metal craft projects with instructions are not as common on the Internet as others. Many sites are trying to sell you something.

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