How to Make Punched Tin
Punched tin was used by early settlers for their cupboard fronts, warmers and lanterns. Tin is easily manipulated, so you can make panels or candle holders without too much trouble. You can match your punched tin to any decor in your home, or offer as a gift to friends or family.
Things You'll Need
- Old piece of plywood
- Heavy cardboard
- Tin
- Tin snips
- Tin punch or large nail
- Rubber mallet
- Antiquing spray
- Pattern
- Tape
Instructions
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1
Gather your materials. You can buy tin panels at your local craft store. You can also buy several different shaped tin punches, but if you are just starting, try a nail first to see if you like doing the craft before you spend a lot of money. Various patterns are also available. Find one or two that you like. If you don't find a pattern specific for tin punching you can use a pattern for almost anything.
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2
Place your piece of plywood on a table with the cardboard on top. Snip your tin to the size you want your project to be and tape it down to the cardboard to keep it from slipping. If you pattern is on paper you can tape it to the tin. If it is plastic you will have to trace it on paper to put over your tin.
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3
Take your nail and place it at the beginning of the pattern. Hit it lightly with the mallet. Check to see if it made a mark in the tin. If you hit too hard it could go all the way through. If you hit it too light, you may not be able to see it. Keep moving through your pattern, checking it every once in while to make sure your staying consistent.
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4
Spray with an antiquing glaze to give the tin a vintage look.
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5
Frame your project. You can put it in a frame or you can leave it and glue a picture hanger on the back to hang it up. You can also glue a loop with a pipe cleaner or picture wire on the back and hang on your front door. When you get the hang of it, the tin panel can replace the panel in your kitchen cabinets.
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Tips & Warnings
Once you decide you like this project and want to do more, buy a punch kit with several different punches in it. You should also invest in a punch hammer.
You can also use copper or brass panels in stead of tin.
Don't let your pattern move or your whole picture will be ruined.
