Hammered Copper Sheets - Lend An Artistic Touch

Hammered copper sheets are a vital part of the varied decorative applications, which includes sinks and light fixtures. These materials can be procured at economical prices and have a marvelous finish and texture. The sheets are malleable and they need to be slightly heated so that hammering can be resorted to.

They are not only eye-catching and gorgeous to look at, but they are equally sturdy and resistant. They are becoming increasingly popular and have varied applications and are used in items like elevators, doors, sinks, mirrors, counter tops and even light fixtures. A variety of textures can be created by hammering copper sheets. The texturing process brings down the maintenance cost and lends an attractive look to the product.

Simple tools that are available in every household can be used for achieving the hammered look. You need not necessarily have to use ovens or torches. The first thing is to take a copper sheet of the right measurement. The hardness and thickness of the sheet is very important. The ideal size of the sheet should be 0.021 inches and the thickness should be 16 oz or 24 gauges. Preferably, select a soft material so that it can be hammered easily without much hassle. A softer sheet is also more flexible and can be easily bended. Moreover, you would have to exert a lesser force and comparatively lesser efforts.

The next requisite is that of a backing board. Preferably plywood can be used. You could buy soft copper sheet which is normally rolled into a coil. Unroll the sheet and place it on the plywood, pin with nails on all the corners. Ensure that the copper sheet is rolled out straight and flat. Then place the towel above the copper sheet.

Some hundred years back, a traditional coppersmith would have used at least ten to twelve hammers to give finishes and touches to the copper sheet. But all of these are a thing of the past, thanks to the ball peen hammer. The hammer's rounded end is ideal for giving the indentations. The hammer's weight is enough for hammering the sheet of copper and one need not necessarily have to hit the sheet too hard in order to make indentations.

Ideally many softer hits neatly hammered together are better than bigger dents placed away from each other. Depending on the hits, you can achieve varied finishes. A textured backing material would also lend that embossing effect on the sheet. If the surface is gritty and pocked, the copper sheet lends an old and haggard look. Different finishes can be given to the sheet and the variety possible is endless. Thanks to the durability and malleability of copper sheets, lending diverse finishes is very much achievable.

It is important to mention here that when hammering copper sheets, make sure to wear protective eye care. Also wear gloves when handling pointed and razor sharp copper sheet edges. Eyeglasses prevent copper bits from entering the eyes when you are hammering the sheets.