Monday, May 11, 2009

Hammers

While shopping in Tucson last February, I was intrigued by a demo of some unique hammers. These hammers transferred patterns to metal based on the intricate carvings on the striking face of the hammer. I was sorely tempted to purchase a few of these, but at $40 apiece, I decided against it.

I talked about these hammers with much regret for about a month after returning from Tucson. One day Rick surprised me with 3 custom made hammers. Each one has 2 different striking faces.



Here's a close up of my favorite pattern. It makes a great criss-cross pattern on the metal. You need to swing pretty hard to get good definition on brass, as seen in this photo. After hammering, I applied a heat patina and then sanded with 400 grit polishing paper to highlight the high spots. I'll probably turn this into a pendant.


Yay Rick!

5 comments:

msbelle said...

I just ordered 2 textured hammers over the weekend! I can't wait to practice with them. Yours look very cool and I love that brass. It's beautiful. Did you make a pendant? Show us what you do/did!

Deb @ Crysallis said...

have I told you lately again that I adore Rick??? GAH!!!

great article!!!

Unknown said...

I did not know such things exsisted. Wow! I love them. I love the cris cross pattern, too.

brokenteepee said...

Awwwww, isn't he wonderful?!
Have fun and I can't wait to see what you make!

K S Jewellery Designs said...

Lucky girl - look forward to see what you make - I love textured metal.
Kristin :)