Engraving is the process of cutting designs into metal using a sharp point called a graver.
How to hand engrave metal. There are master engravers, and then there are master engravers that are entrusted to carve on $100,000 family heirlooms. The art of hand engraving can be described as the process in which a hardened, shaped, and sharpened piece of steel, called a 'graver', is pushed through. There is no easy answer as it is really is a practical art.
Place the metal piece in the engraving area. Stick the tape over the area you have. Draw or stamp your initial design.
A graver is usually made of steel or another alloy that is harder than the metal being engraved,. Take a metal or jewellery engraving blank in the shape of the piece you are designing. Then, place a cloth dampened with acetone over the print.
Use a dremel tool to create a design on the surface. Place this printed image on the metal surface, with the design facing the metal. Once the lube is completely dried, you are ready to engrave.
Let the lacquer dry, and use a grinder to create a mirror finish. Cover it with a scotch tape, rub thoroughly using a burnisher or your own fingernail, and then lift up the tape gently. I served 7 year apprenticeship and i didn't touch an engraving tool for the first three years.
It was learning lettering day after day. The design must be now on the tape. It’s an unnerving task that would have most people.