Re: How to make a punch for gold inlay?
I ususally make my brass punches from 3/16 dia, brass rod. cut it 6" in length. chuck it up in a drill or drill press and spin it. While it is spinning take a file and shape the taper on the end.
Then using my hammer I strike the face of the punch on a file while turning the punch to texture the face. Having a textured face really helps the punch bite the gold which helps avoid creeping down the channel. I also prefer to hammer my gold in rather than using an airgraver. You get a more controlled and solid seating into the footing and it frankly is just as fast.
Ray
|