This easy step by step tutorial will show you how to make your own stamped vintage key necklace, keychain, bookmark or keepsake! Our Key Word DIY activity is a fun 10 minute activity using basic project planning and metalworking skills. The result is a necklace, keychain, bookmark or keepsake charm with a word to remind you of something important, or comedic, or affirming.
Using vintage keys from doors, roller skates, post office boxes, and suitcases in a variety of shapes, you can create your own word project using letter stamps in just a few easy steps.
Project Materials:
- small hammer (small regular hammer or metal-stamping hammer)
- vintage keys (check those junk drawers - we all have old house keys)
- 1/8" or 3mm metal letter stamps
- small metal jewelers block
- safety glasses
- thin cord or ribbon (optional)
- pencil or dry erase marker
- permanent black pen or black jewelers wax (optional)
Step 1: Plan
Working with the stamp-able space on the key, you can use a dry erase marker - or even a pencil to plan the letter spacing BEFORE you start stamping.
Ideas: Names, affirmation words, sweetheart initials, anniversary date
2. Stamp!
Line up the metal stamp and give it a solid whack. Repeat.
Step 3: Contrast (Optional)
You can use a black permanent pen to ink over the letters - then polish with a dishtowel to add contrast to your lettering.
Step 4: Finish your Project
If you are making a keepsake treasure - you're done! Use a simple cord or ribbon to create a necklace or bookmark.
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