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How to Engrave a Plaque

There are a few reasons why you will need to have something engraved. For example, if you just won an award, the plaque that you are presented with will be engraved. The process of engraving a plaque itself is really not that difficult but you do need to have a steady hand and the right tools to complete the job successfully.

Things You'll Need:



  • Engraving kit

  • Scrap paper

  • Scrap metal

  • Clamp

  • Saftey glasses or goggles

  • Damp sponge or rag



  1. Practice drawing the engraving. Use pieces of scrap paper, and draw the design or name over and over again. You need to get used to holding the engraving tool and understand the movements before you take the task on. Once you start engraving, your strokes should be smooth and fluid.

  2. Select the appropriate engraving tip. Your engraving kit provides you with options that you need to exercise before you power up your engraver. One of these options is selecting the right tip for the job. You will need to practice using this tip on metal this time. Locate your metal scrap and start the engraver. Remember to test your engraving tip each time you change materials. For example, you began engraving metal and now want to engrave something wooden.  Note: Use safety glasses or goggles when you are practicing to ensure that no metal or wooden scraps fly into your eyes.

  3. Secure the plaque in place with the clamp. The plaque should be fastened to a grip-proof surface.

  4. Begin engraving the design you chose. Carefully remove any residue with a sponge or rag.