DAPPING TOOLS

In the fine art of jewelry making, dapping is the process of taking a flat piece of soft, thin metal, and curving it into a dome shape. Think of custom buttons, or decorative trim on clothing and bracelets.

Dapping usually works well with aluminum, brass, copper, gold, sterling silver and other soft metals. Be sure you do all your creative etching or engraving on the flat disks prior to dapping.

To accomplish this task you will need a lightweight brass hammer, a dapping punch and a dapping block.

The diameter of the depression in the dapping block should be slightly larger than the diameter of the material you are shaping. Your metal disk should fit inside the depression completely.

Gently tap the dapping punch with the brass hammer, forming the metal into a curved shape.

Be patient, take your time. This is art, not the assembly line at an automobile manufacturer. Strike the metal too hard and you will get an uneven shape.

Hold the dapping punch at a slight angle and take a few taps, then turn your dapping block slightly and take a few more taps. Nice…..and easy. Continue rotating the dapping block every few taps and your part should shape up quite nicely.

To get a deeper dome or bell, simply move your shaped part to the next smaller depression in your dapping block. Use the next smaller dapping punch and continue to shape your part.

When dapping small copper coins, like the U.S. or Canadian cent, remember, the material is thick. It will take longer, but the effect is impressive and well worth the effort!