Top 5 Beginner Mistakes When Using Custom Metal Stamps (And How to Fix Them)

Whether you’re stamping leather, wood, or metal, even a high-quality custom metal stamp can produce poor results if used incorrectly. Let’s break down the most common metal stamping mistakes beginners make — and how to fix them for perfect, clean impressions.

Holding the Stamp at the Wrong Angle

One of the most frequent stamping mistakes is not holding the stamp perpendicular to the surface. Even a slight tilt can cause uneven or partial impressions.

Fix:
Always make sure the stamp is positioned straight and remains stable before striking. You can gently press it into the material first to stabilize.

Weak or Inconsistent Hammer Strikes

If you don’t strike the stamp with enough force, or apply pressure inconsistently, you’ll get blurry or shallow marks.

Fix:
Start with a medium strike and adjust depending on material thickness. Use a metal hammer weighing 400g or more for optimal impact.

Stamping on Soft or Unstable Surfaces

Using a surface like wood, fabric, or plastic under your material will absorb impact and cause poor-quality impressions.

Fix:
Always stamp on a solid steel bench block or anvil. This ensures full energy transfer from the hammer into the stamp.

Using the Wrong Tools

Rubber or wooden mallets don’t deliver enough power, and lightweight hammers can cause bouncing or vibration.

Fix:
Use a solid metal hammer designed for metalwork. Avoid using tools not made for impact stamping.

Ignoring Engraving Depth for Your Material

Each surface responds differently. Using the wrong engraving depth leads to either too shallow or too sharp impressions.

Fix:

• For leather or wood: 2 mm depth

• For metal: 1–1.4 mm for blacksmith stamps

• For impact stamps: ~1 mm is enough

Most stamping issues aren’t due to the stamp — they’re caused by simple, avoidable mistakes. By learning the basics of custom metal stamping, using the right tools, and practicing technique, you can achieve clean, consistent results on any material.

🛠 Need help choosing the right stamp or setup?
Visit StampsWorkshop.com to explore premium custom metal stamps made for professionals and beginners alike.