Copper Metal Sheeting

Crafter’s Guide to Copper Metal Sheeting

Copper metal sheeting is a versatile and timeless material that has captured the imagination of crafters and artisans for centuries. Its malleability, beauty, and natural antimicrobial properties make it ideal for projects ranging from jewellery and home decor to architectural features. This guide will help you navigate the essentials of working with copper metal sheeting, including its grades, finishes, techniques, and ready-to-use products.

1. Understanding Copper Grades

Selecting the right grade of copper is the first step in ensuring your project’s success:

• C106 Copper:

  • Phosphorus-deoxidized copper, perfect for general-purpose crafting and fabrication.

  • Offered in thicknesses ranging from 0.4mm to 1.5mm.

  • Known for its malleability, making it ideal for projects involving beaten copper designs and cold working.

• C101 Copper:

  • Electrolytic tough pitch copper, designed for electrical applications and demanding fabrication.

  • Available in thicker sheets (2.0mm and 3.0mm).

  • Slightly less malleable than C106, but excellent for structural and electrical work.

• C103 Copper:

  • Electrical grade copper used mainly for busbars.

Crafting Tip: C106 is the preferred grade for most artistic and decorative projects due to its ease of bending, cutting, and shaping.

2. Cutting and Shaping Copper Metal Sheeting

Copper’s softness allows for easy cutting and shaping, but the right tools and techniques are essential for achieving clean results:

• Cutting Tools:

  • Tin snips for sheets up to 0.9mm thickness. Thicker sheets can be cut with a jigsaw (fine blade) or on a guillotine.

  • Jeweller’s saws or CNC cutting for intricate designs.

  • Laser cutting (fiber laser is best) or routing machines (CNC recommended; edges will need dressing).

• Shaping Techniques:

  • Beaten Copper Work: Sheets of 0.7mm or thinner are ideal for hand-beating and embossing. Use hammers and anvils to create textures and designs.

  • Welding and Soldering: High-quality joints can be achieved with lead-free tin/silver pre-fluxed solder. Ensure surfaces are clean and well-prepared for strong bonds.

  • Folding Methods: Small parts in thin copper can be manipulated with plier-type hand tools. Thicker metal requires a vice or a sheet metal folding machine.

Pro Tip: C101 copper’s springier nature can make it more challenging to shape. For complex designs, opt for C106.

3. Exploring Copper Finishes

The finish of your copper metal sheeting determines the visual and tactile appeal of your project. At Kraft Metals, we offer a range of finishes to suit every need:

• Natural Copper:

  • The raw, unaltered beauty of copper.

  • Perfect for projects that embrace copper’s natural aging process, developing rich patinas over time or through chemical treatment.

• Brushed Copper:

  • Features a matte, linear texture for a sleek, modern aesthetic.

  • Popular for contemporary home decor and furniture.

  • Will patina very quickly when the protective plastic film is removed.

• Mirror (Polished) Copper:

  • A highly reflective, smooth surface that adds a luxurious touch.

  • Ideal for decorative panels, jewellery, and artistic pieces.

• Hammered Copper:

  • A textured finish that exudes rustic charm.

  • Perfect for artisanal designs, lampshades, furniture inlays, table tops, and kitchen features.

• Verdigris Copper:

  • A pre-patinated green copper is great for projects like bird box roofs, ornaments, and jewellery. For handling, lacquering is recommended.

Explore our range of copper finishes here.

4. Ready-to-Use Copper Products

For crafters looking for convenience and precision, our pre-cut products are the perfect starting point:

• Copper Strips:

  • Available in various widths and lengths of 1 meter, these strips are perfect for edging, jewellery making, and smaller craft projects. They can also serve as slug repellents around plant pots.

  • Easy to shape, solder, and customize.

• Copper Blanks:

  • Pre-cut shapes are designed for enamelling, stamping, engraving, and beaten copper work.

  • Ideal for jewellery, medallions, or decorative plaques.

Shop for Copper Strips and Blanks.

5. Protecting and Maintaining Copper

Copper’s natural beauty can be enhanced or preserved with the right care techniques:

• Ageing Process:

  • Indoors: Copper darkens to a rich brown.

  • Outdoors: Over time, it transitions to verdigris green.

• Preservation Options:

  • Apply clear lacquer to maintain its original appearance.

  • Regular cleaning with products like Bar Keepers Friend or Brasso to remove tarnish.

• Surface Protection:

  • Our copper sheets come with a protective plastic film on one side to prevent scratches during handling and fabrication.

6. Inspiring Applications for Copper Metal Sheeting

Copper’s versatility lends itself to a wide range of creative and functional uses:

• Jewellery and Craftwork:

  • Create hammered bracelets, pendants, and earrings with our copper blanks and strips.

• Home Decor:

  • Add warmth and character to your space with brushed or natural copper designs like wall panels or planter accents.

• Artistic Creations:

  • Explore embossing or beaten copper techniques to craft one-of-a-kind art pieces.

  • Painting directly onto copper sheets is also gaining interest from artists who use copper as a canvas.

• Functional Items:

  • Use hammered or polished copper for bowls, trays, or utensil holders. Furniture embellishments are also popular.

7. Sustainability and Antimicrobial Properties

Copper is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly and hygienic:

• Sustainability:

  • Copper is highly recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

  • Recycling copper becomes even more critical as demand grows with the green energy revolution.

• Antimicrobial Qualities:

  • Copper naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses, including MRSA and COVID-19.

  • An excellent choice for hygiene-critical environments, such as kitchens and hospitals.

Conclusion

Copper metal sheeting offers endless possibilities for crafters, combining beauty, functionality, and sustainability. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned artisan, our range of finishes, pre-cut products, and expert tips can help you bring your ideas to life.

Ready to start your next project? Shop our copper metal sheeting now and explore the creative potential of this timeless material!

Any Questions, then Contact Us

Email: Sales@kraftmetals.co.uk

Tel: 0151 526 4777