Process Your Holiday Pendant
Use a Dappling Block to Achieve a Curved Shape
Find out how to use a dapping block to shape the silver holiday pendant for a three-dimensional look.
This is the second article in the handcrafting Holiday Jewelry 2007 series. The first article outlined the basic, beginner instructions to handcraft the sterling silver elemental circular pendant. This medium-skill level article continues those instructions with the further processing of the pendant.
These instructions use a dapping block to form a convex or curved out shape to the pendant. The basic pendant is certainly lovely enough to wear as is. However, using a dapping block to shape the pendant gives it a three-dimensional look that is esthetically appealing and eyecatching.
Dapping blocks are made of both metal and hardwood. The hardwood type of dapping block is recommended for these instructions, as hardwood is normally less expensive.
How Does a Dapping Block Work?
A dapping block does its job because it has carved depressions, also known as cups, into which pieces of metal are placed. The metal is then gently hammered using a punch to form a shape similar to the cup. A punch is merely a wooden stake sized to fit the particular cup in use.
Circular Pendant Supply List Continued:
- Dapping block – needed for the medium-skill instructions shown in this article. This hardwood dapping block sold at Contenti has six different size cups, comes with two punches and is priced at less than $6.
Dapping Block Instructions:
- Remove any sterling silver chain or black silk cord that might be threaded through the basic pendant. Place the pendant, good side down, into a cup in ythe dapping block.
- The choice as to which size cup used is a matter of personal preference. A larger cup will form less of a convex shape, while with a smaller cup the curved shape will be more apparent. A thick piece of alumium foil can be used to test cup size.
- Using the appropriate size punch, place the punch in the cup on top of the pendant. The punch will be striking the back side of the pendant. Very gently hammer the top end of the punch, creating the convex form. (See Image #1 for a side view after use of the dapping block. The pendant now resembles a contact lens or kitchen bowl.)
- If not happy with the curve to the pendant when done, place the pendant in a different size cup and gently hammer it to re-shape the pendant.
Beware of Work Hardening the Sterling Silver to the Extreme:
The act of hammering the sterling silver pendant is known as work hardening. Up to a certain point, work hardening the metal makes it stronger. Go beyond this point, and the metal will become brittle and eventually break. It is a fine line between strong and brittle.
To avoid ruining the pendant, use gentle hammer blows and only reshape the pendent once – and only if absolutely necessary.
The final article in this series will provide the advanced instructions detailing how to form a thumbprint-like dimple at the top of the pendant to add further surface interest. It will also discuss finishing the black cord with terminators for wear as a necklace.
