Adding Creases to a Metal Blank

Place the two bench blocks side by side, leaving a space that's the same width as the nail. Place the metal blank over the space, position the nail on top of the blank so it is aligned with the space, and hammer the nail several times to form a crease in the blank.

Turn the blank over and, holding a thick piece of fabric on the edges, use a hammer to flatten the edges, as shown on the copper blank. If you want a bit of texture on the blank, as in the brass one shown here, do not use the fabric, but use the hammer directly on the blank to flatten the edges. Then use steel wool or a buffing block to highlight the raised surfaces of the brass, leaving the textured areas a bit darker.