Hand engraving tips and tricks

Hand engraving has experienced a recent rise in popularity among both collectors and those interested in learning the art form. Historically hand engraving was trade passed down in the traditional manner from master to apprentice. This is how I learned the basics 25 years ago. Engravers have also been a secretive lot by nature out of fear of competition. The simple fact is that there is a larger demand for hand engraved items than there are engravers to provide them. We are in the middle of a renaissance period with regard to the art. Never before have so many artists cut and sculpted their visions into so many different metal objects as we see today. In addition there are more opportunities and avenues for education for the beginner the ever before. Affordable classes, social media forums, and online engravers groups make it easier than ever to learn the basics of this timeless craft.
This page will serve as a resource for tips, tricks, information and will also offer links to other valuable resources as well. In addition to this page, I am currently in the process of writing a new and updated manual for the hand engraver. At the moment, there are very few books on the subject and most of those are outdated and don't reflect modern practices. I hope to change that by working on  a new book that will serve as a "how to" manual with a modern approach. Until then, pay a visit to these links to learn more about hand engraving. 

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Pay a visit to Master Engraver TV for online engraving tips and tricks
https://www.youtube.com/c/masterengravertv
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Interested in Hand Engraving? Visit the Engravers Cafe Forum and become a member . you'll have access to the largest database of engraving tips on the internet. 
https://engraverscafe.com/

For all of your engraving tool needs, GRS Tools serves as a one stop shop for both equipment and quality engraving instruction. 
https://www.grs.com/
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Interested in the tools i use every day? Click on the links below for some great deals on GRS Tools with free shipping.

GRS Gravermax G8

GRS Apex Sharpening Fixture

Glensteel Square Graver

Leica A60 w/Flex Arm

Quick Change Graver Handles

GRS Magnablock Vise

GRS Powerhone

Quick Change Collets

Diamond Polishing Wheel

GRS Standard Vise

C-Max 1.8mm Graver Blank

1200 Grit Diamond Wheel

Learning to draw scrolls is one of the most important first steps for the beginning engraver. Understanding the fundamentals of scroll design is key.  Here are a few of the books that every engraver should keep in his library for reference. 

Out of Print