Flattening Wire with Hammers

by Dale Armstrong
Question:

Could you give me some tips on how to hammer to flatten wire without leaving marks? I just can't seem to keep it smooth!

-Lindsay in Goshen, Indiana
Instructions
Answer:

Hi Lindsay, the main reason some people dent wire when flattening it with a chasing hammer is usually a mix of the tool and technique used.

"Chasing" means bringing the hammer down onto the metal, then quickly sweeping it to the side. With a metal flat head chasing hammer, the hand often twists, causing the edge of the hammer to hit the wire and dent it.

To fix this, either practice bringing the hammer straight down before sweeping it to the side, or invest in a half-dome chasing hammer to avoid dents altogether!

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Dale Armstrong's Flattening Wire with Hammers - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Design, Tools, Domed Chasing Hammer
Dale Armstrong's Flattening Wire with Hammers - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Design, Tools, Flat Chasing Hammer

Materials

Wire
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Tools

Chasing Hammer with Wooden Handle, 1 1/8 Inch Face
G3-27
  • G3-27
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $13.95
  • Gold Club Price: $10.46
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Flat Face Chasing Hammer
HAM-161.00
  • HAM-161.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $14.97
  • Gold Club Price: $11.23
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Chasing Hammer - Flat Faced with Polished Wooden Handle - Pack of 1
G3-13
  • G3-13
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $11.97
  • Gold Club Price: $8.98
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Flat Face Chasing Hammer with Wood Handle - Economy
G3-14
  • G3-14
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $11.57
  • Gold Club Price: $8.68
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Bench Block Helper with Steel and Nylon Blocks
DAP-500.30
  • DAP-500.30
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $29.95
  • Gold Club Price: $22.46
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  • Category: Tools
  • Technique(s): Design, Tools