How to Engrave Metal Stamps

Make your mark with a custom metal stamp.

Metal stamps are a great way to leave a custom mark -- whether it be your signature, a logo or other recognizable icon -- on just about anything. While rubber stamps serve the same function, they are not as durable as those made from metal. To create your own custom stamp, you must engrave your design or insignia of choice into the face of the metal square. This process, known as etching, is simple and makes for a great afternoon project.

Things You'll Need

• Metal plate -- aluminum, zinc or copper
• Etching needles
• Gloves
• Safety goggles
• Etching bath
• Bowl
• Burin
• Burnisher
• Microfiber cloth
• Denatured alcohol

Instructions

1. Carve your insignia, symbol or logo of choice onto the metal plate of the stamp using an etching needle. It is a good idea to have needles of various gauges (thicknesses) if you plan on doing detailed work.

2. Put on your safety goggles and gloves. Pour about a 1/2 cup of etching bath into a medium-sized bowl, using caution not to spill or splatter the solution.

3. Submerge the engraved metal plate in the etching bath. The chemicals in the etching bath deepen the lines you made on the metal through oxidation, so the longer it is submerged the deeper the lines will be. Remove the plate from the solution often to check progress.

4. Add detail using engraving burins or burnishers if desired. These tools will allow you to taper lines or create V-shaped grooves -- ideal for the creative and artistic metal stamp maker. Dip the metal plate back into the etching bath for a short time after you have finished detailing.

5. Hold the plate under a running faucet to stop the etching process and make permanent your engraving on the metal stamp.

6. Moisten a microfiber cloth with denatured alcohol and wipe the surface of the stamp. It is now ready to be immersed in ink and used.

Tips & Warnings

• The materials listed above can be purchased at your local crafts store.

• The chemicals in the etching bath can be very harmful to skin and eyes. Always use appropriate safety precautions when handling and pouring the bath. Never let children around your work area.

References

• Hollywood Foundry: Introduction to Metal Etching