I mentioned when I share my Metal Flower Bottle Toppers that I had some other metal embossing projects to share. Like all of the things I get into, I fell into this while attending a Scrapbooking convention and discovering Ten Seconds Studio which specialized in this. I haven't done it in several years and have rediscovered my love of it!
Supplies:
- Aluminum Embossing Metal
- Embossing Metal Tools
- Embossing Mat
- Wood Pieces
- Double Sided Tape
- Utility Knife / Scissors
The two sets of embossing tools I have are shown. You can also use the kinds of stylus' that have round balls on either end, or wood sticks like cuticle sticks, or even dried up ball point pens. Whatever's hard enough to make an impression but not pierce the metal.
I knew I was going to mount the metal piece on wood so I used a piece to create the outline on the metal. You need something like the rubber mat shown to place under the metal so when you press tools into the metal it absorbs the shape. You can use craft foam or a magazine.
I found a cactus image I liked, sized, and printed it to use as a guide. Lay your image down and trace around the outline using an embossing tool or a pen. I used a ball point.
Depending on the areas you want raised vs indented, trace your image on the front or back of the metal. I did mine from the back so you can see the image reversed on the metal. I chose another tool from my kit to do the cactus lines, then other tools to make designs. You can also use embossing folders with metal.
I wasn't even sure what I was going to do with this until I finished. I decided to use my thrifted tiered tray, along with more metal flowers I cut out and white rocks. I had so much fun reconnecting with this craft, I made another sign. This time just freehanded the lettering.
We found this cactus candleholder at a thrift shop and I painted it white and silver.
I also did a piece with the state of Arizona design. This one I muted a bit by wiping some black paint over it. Alcohol inks also work well on embossed metal projects.
I'm really glad to have reconnected with an old friend!
