Steel Hole Punch, How-To
by Tammy Honaman, Author, Jewelry-Making Expert and Educator, Exclusively for Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®
Instructions
The easy way to use a steel hole punch, makes holes with smooth edges and a good round shape. Holes can be made in soft metal of varying thickness, ranging from 28-gauge (approximately .3mm) to 10-gauge (approximately 2.6mm) depending on the type and hardness of the metal. The hole punch creates hole sizes in approximately 1.5mm (accommodating up to 14-gauge wire) and 2mm (accommodating up to 12-gauge wire) in diameter.
Step 1
Slide a piece of metal into the opening at the end of the tool with the desired hole-punch size. Position the metal so the hole will be in the desired location.
Position the metal so the hole will be in the desired location.
Step 2
Slowly twist the handle in a clockwise motion, lowering the punch into position.
Step 3
Continue to twist the handle as the punch makes contact with the metal you are punching. You will feel a resistance. Twist until the hole has been made all the way through.
Step 4
Once the hole is completed, turn the handle counterclockwise to raise the punch and release the metal.
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