Stamping and Marking

All the metal stamps we carry can be used on soft metals such as brass, copper, nickel silver, pewter, Alkemé, aluminum, gold, silver, as well as polymer clay, precious metal clays, and leather. For harder metals like stainless steel, only signature stamps should be used. Using plated or basic stamps on harder metals will eventually wear them out.

The metal stamp size refers to the height of the stamped impression (not the size of the physical stamp). For letter stamps the size is based on the average letter height (skewed towards the taller letters). The size of the impressions can vary depending on the material being stamped into and the striking force being used.

This is a common issue for those using steel hammers and is why we recommend using the ImpressArt Ergo-Angle Stamping Hammer or a brass hammer. Since the steel head of a hammer is just as hard as the steel stamp, the hammer can bounce or vibrate off of the stamp very quickly and sometimes hit the stamp again leaving a double impression.

Another reason you may get double impressions is if you strike the stamp multiple times. We recommend trying to hit the stamp hard enough so that you only have to hit it one time.

There are a several ways to add color to your stamped impressions. The easiest way is to use permanent markers or paint markers where you simply color in the impressions and wipe away the excess ink with a polishing cloth or paper towel. For brass and copper, you can use liver of sulfur to oxidize the metal, which will give the entire piece an antiqued look and emphasize the stamped areas. Acrylic or enamel paint can also be used.

Only stamps labeled as signature quality are rated for use on stainless steel. The heads on the basic and plated quality stamps will flatten out if used on stainless steel or other hard metal.