The use of metal engraving equipment (also called a metal engraving machine) for decorative metal engraving needs extensive education and training. Knowledge about the usage of a metal engraving tool (or a metal engraver tool) is very important in order to perform proper metal engraving.

If you are a metal engraving equipment manufacturer or a metal engraving equipment distributor, you can use different magazines and online publications to update your knowledge about new techniques and developments in the quality of metal engraving supplies and current events in the industry. If you are an amateur, you can learn the use of metal engraving equipment for simple and custom metal engraving.

There are many basic and advanced level programs available to teach you how to use metal engraving machines or metal engraving tools. In addition, you can also take tutorials that enable you to use different metal engraving equipment.

To educate yourself or your staff on metal engraving and keep your knowledge up-to-date, you can:

1. Join basic and advanced level training programs on custom metal engraving.
2. Take online tutorials on metal engraving.
3. Subscribe to magazines about metal engraving.
4. Join metal engravers’ associations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find basic and advanced training programs in custom metal engraving

If you have never used metal engraving machines, you can opt for a basic level training program. You can opt for advanced training programs if you already know the basics of the metal engraving technology.

I recommend: SCM Systems is a metal engraving equipment manufacturer that also provides a complete DVD training program. You can also opt for an advanced course in decorative metal engraving at GRS Training Center. In addition, you can join the School of Fine Art Engraving for basic as well as advanced training in metal engraving.

Find online tutorials for learning custom metal engraving

If you cannot attend the training courses in metal engraving, online tutorials can be a suitable alternative.

I recommend: The Hancocks offers an online tutorial that gives useful information about the usage of the Dremel rotary tool, a versatile metal engraving instrument for various applications, including metal engraving. Engraving School.com is another useful website that offers free tutorials with videos for decorative metal engraving. In addition, you can buy DVD tutorials and training programs in custom metal engraving at Profitable Hobbies.

Update your knowledge about metal engraving equipment

Magazines about metal engraving provide up-to-date information about metal engraving equipment. In addition, you can also join associations of engravers.

I recommend: If you are a metal engraving equipment manufacturer or distributor, The Engravers Journal, a reputable publication for the engraving industry, can be very useful for you to keep up with the pace of the industry. In addition, you can also join the Awards and Recognition Association, a membership organization dedicated to the awards and engraving industry.

Detail added with metal engraving equipment adds a certain appeal to many products such as protective equipment, metal tags, guns and many other items. There are many decorative metal engraving tools available, small tools for the hobbyist and larger tools for the higher industrious businesses.

As there are so many products available for engraving use, deciding on the right one can be overwhelming. It is important to consider the following before making a big purchase:

1. Figure out what you plan on engraving.

2. Choose between a standard metal engraving machine versus a laser.

3. Determine how much you would like to spend on metal engraving supplies.

4. Consider used metal engraving machines.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide the types of products you would like to use a metal engraving tool on

The type of item or items you would like to engrave will determine the type of metal engraver tool you will need for that project. Once you determine the products you would like to customize, it will be easier to choose the right tool for the job. There are smaller tools available for small custom jobs such as pet tags and jewelery or you may opt for a larger machine to handle larger industrial services including braille labels or license plates.

I recommend: Both Gravograph and Photo Fabrication include examples of items available for etching. Many websites online include materials available for customization.

Choose between a standard metal engraving machine versus a laser

Laser engraving equipment has some benefits, including red-eye precision cuts. The red laser allows for a better visual reference as to where the laser will cut. Some find that lasers provide more detail and a smoother cut, although the price tag can be considerably more expensive. Standard metal etching machines may be more financially friendly for the hobbyist or small, entry-level businesses.

I recommend: Both Epilogaser and Telesis offer laser metal engraving machines. Investigate the product lines they offer and decide if laser or standard is right for you. Telesis also offers a wide variety of standard machines that are anything but standard.

Determine how much you would like to spend on metal engraving supplies

The wonderful thing about metal engraving supplies is that they arrive in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and price tags. Keep in mind that if you are using equipment for larger pieces, larger machines will be required (and usually with a larger price tag).

I recommend: Online distributors, such as SCM System Inc, have a wide variety of tools available from $300 for small tools up to $11,000 for much larger, heavier pieces. Able Engravers offer computerized metal engraving tools, for discounted prices.

Consider a used or refurbished metal engraving machine

Do not let the phrase 'newer is better' decide for you when purchasing costly equipment. Investing in used or refurbished equipment may grant you a better machine for a lower price. If possible, purchase an extended warranty on your product to grant continuous use for years to come.

I recommend: Contact different metal engraving equipment distributors such as Vision Engravers or Torchmate and inquire about any used or refurbished equipment they may have for sale. Often, pieces are returned to the distributor in excellent shape and then sold for a discount.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Watch videos available online at the manufacturers' website to gauge a better understanding of how their products work. This will allow you to get a better feel for a possible fit.