Almost any metal object that has raised designs can be used to stamp thin metal. Examine everyday objects around you for ideas; many objects are decorated with raised designs and can be used for metal stamping. Also visit flea markets and yard sales to look for items which can be used for metal stamping. To stamp thin metal, you can press it over the object and use your fingers to gently rub the design into the metal. For thicker metal sheets, you will need a bench block and hammer to stamp the design.
Metal stamping with found objects will make your art completely unique. Finding objects with raised borders and designs and combining them into new designs on your metal sheets is a creative way to make pendants, framed artwork or mixed media art when combined with acrylics or other paints. Sketch your design on paper before stamping the metal. This helps decide which parts need stamping first, and how the final design will look.
Many crafters who do metal stamping purchase their letter stamps. This is sometimes necessary if you are working with thicker metals, because it can be hard to find letters made from hard enough materials for stamping. If you are working with the thinner craft metals, however, this is unnecessary. Old found type bars or typewheels from broken typewriters can be used to press combinations of letters into soft sheets of metal.
When working with thicker metals, such as pendants or jewelry blanks, it is often necessary to use a bench block and hammer to stamp the metal. This is the traditional form of metal stamping, as was done before thin sheets of craft metal were produced. To use a bench block, simply place it on a flat, steady surface and position the metal to be stamped on top of it. Hold your found object in its desired position on the metal, and strike the object squarely with a hammer. This will create indentations in the metal, and you will be left with a stamped image.