Copper Blanks

Kraft Metals Guide to Copper Blanks

Our copper blanks are cut from high-quality European copper sheets, available in two grades: C106 and C101, with thicknesses ranging from 0.4mm to 3.0mm. These versatile blanks are perfect for a wide range of applications, including jewellery making, enamelling, stamping, and general fabrication.

Copper Blanks Grades:

• C106 Copper: Available in thinner gauges (0.4mm to 1.5mm), this general-purpose, phosphorus-deoxidised copper is ideal for crafting and fabrication. Easier to bend, it is perfect for applications such as beaten copper work and copper anodes for plating.
• C101 Copper: Offered in thicker gauges (2.0mm and 3.0mm), this electrolytic tough pitch copper is a little springier and designed for electrical and high-performance fabrication uses.

We stock sheet sizes up to 3000mm x 1000mm and 8ft x 4ft (2438mm x 1219mm) and offer custom sizes, CNC shape cutting, and additional services such as welding, bronzed and aged patina application, and more.

Fabrication:
Copper blanks are easy to work with and can be cut by hand with tin snips for thicknesses up to 0.9mm. For beaten copper projects, we recommend thicknesses of 0.7mm or less. Our lead-free tin/silver pre-fluxed solder is excellent for copper joining and ensures high-quality results. Both C106 and C101 are suitable for cold working, welding, and soldering.

Condition and Protection:
Each blank features a protective plastic film on one side to minimise scuffs during handling and cutting. While the reverse side may show some scuffing from the cutting process, any marks can be removed using Scotchbrite-style conditioning pads.

Finishing:
Copper’s natural color may vary slightly between batches, and it will naturally patina over time, transitioning from its bright copper hue to shades of brown, black, and eventually verdigris green. For those who prefer a consistent color, patina-resistant coatings or faux copper sheets are recommended.

Copper Blanks Applications:

• Crafting: Ideal for jewellery making, stamping, and bracelet crafting.
• Architecture and Engineering: Trusted for its corrosion resistance and malleability.
• Chemical Environments: Suitable for applications requiring durability in challenging environments.
• Antimicrobial Uses: Copper’s natural antimicrobial properties make it ideal for hygiene-critical surfaces.

Antimicrobial Properties:
Copper is naturally antimicrobial, effectively killing viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19, MRSA, and other problematic microbes, on a clean surface.

Maintenance and Tarnish Removal:
For those wishing to remove tarnish, products such as Bar Keepers Friend are highly effective and readily available.

Copper Patina and Environmental Impact:
Copper’s evolving character through patination is highly valued in artistic and architectural projects. For enthusiasts, we recommend The Colouring, Bronzing, and Patination of Metals: A Manual for Fine Metalworkers, Sculptors, and Designers.

Copper Mining and Sustainability:
Copper is sourced globally, with major producers in Chile, Peru, and Mongolia. As demand for copper increases due to the green energy revolution, prices are expected to rise, potentially making ocean mining a future reality.