How to Engrave a Metal Plate
Engraving on a metal plate is similar to engraving on any piece of metal. The advantage to engraving on a plate form, though, is that it provides a smooth, flat surface. Computerized engraving machines can cost tens of thousands of dollars. As an inexpensive alternative, purchase a Dremel or any similar hand-held rotary tool. The Dremel is useful for any hand-engraving as well as a variety of other tasks. Different bits can be installed in the Dremel, but for engraving metal, a carbide bit used at low speed is preferable.
Things You'll Need
- Metal plate
- Pencil or printed image/text
- Table clamps
- Dremel
- Carbide bit
Instructions
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Use a pencil to outline your design on the metal plate. Alternatively, print out the design or desired text.
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Clamp the metal plate to a work table to keep it from moving while you engrave it. If using a design print-out, clamp the paper on top of the metal plate.
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Insert the carbide bit into the Dremel.
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Use the pencil marks or paper to guide you as you engrave at low speed.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are serious about engraving on a long-term basis, a pneumatic graver or other specialized metal engraving tool may be a better option than a Dremel.
