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Tool Vendors & Suppliers
Tool shopping can be exciting but tedious. Take your time and shop around for the best options for your current budget. You can always upgrade tools as you go.
Some of the tools and equipment are going to be hard to find from sources other than professional jewelry tool suppliers. For everything else you need you can find them directly from Marlen's Amazon Storefront.
Visit Amazon Store
Resale License Required
- Rio Grande
- Hoover & Strong
- Stuller
Pro Tip:
Never underestimate shopping around for second hand tools and equipment. Sometimes older tools are built sturdier than the new ones. Always check Ebay or jewelry tool swap forums for deals; you never know what you'll stumble across.
Graver Making & Sharpening Tools
Making and sharpening traditional gravers is divided into two simple stages: making/assembling the graver and sharpening it.
The entire process is intentionally kept as basic as possible and requires no complex machinery, special jigs, or fancy fixtures. Besides using a bench grinder to initially shape the graver blanks, every remaining step — from setting the blank into the handle to final sharpening and polishing — is done completely by hand.
Essential Tools
- Gravers & Handles
- Grinding Wheels
- Bench Vise & Hammer
- Sharpening Stones/Plates
- Wood Block
- Polishing Emery Paper
Gravers & Handles
For engraving on soft metals like brass, copper, silver and gold use high speed steel gravers (not carbon or carbide steel).
Always buy uncut graver blanks (not pre-shaped) so you can learn to shape the gravers yourself - the foundation of sovereign technique
For beginners, purchase 3 gravers - Onglette, Flat and Square gravers.
As well as 3 half-round wood handles.
Bench Grinder & Wheels
To shape gravers into a usable form we use a bench grinder. A basic, affordable model is perfectly adequate for occasional use, but a well-built grinder with smooth, low-vibration operation will provide better control and last longer.
For grinding graver blanks, a 3/4-inch wide 60-grit silicon carbide grinding wheel is highly recommended.
The blank is held by hand against the rotating wheel to form the desired face angle and shape, removing material quickly and efficiently before moving on to hand sharpening.
Always wear eye protection when using a grinder.
Recommended Links:
- Amazon - Makita 250 Watts Bench Grinder GB602
- Amazon - WEN BG4260 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder
- Amazon - Poliwell 6 Inch Grinding Wheel 1/2'', 60 Grit Silicon Carbide 3/4"
- Amazon - Truper Silicon Carbide Grinding Wheel 6-Inch OD x 1-Inch Thick, 60 Grit
- Amazon - TICONN Anti-Fog Safety Glasses
Bench Vise & Hammer
A bench vise is used to hold a graver firmly in place while the wood handle is
hammered onto the back end of the graver.
The metal shank of the graver is clamped securely in the vise jaws, keeping it completely rigid and stable during the process. Any bench vise will work as long as it is properly secured to a sturdy table or workbench.
A medium-weight metal head hammer is ideal for tapping the handle onto the tang, providing just the right amount of controlled force without risking damage to the tool or handle.
Sharpening Stones/Plates
Sharpening stones are essential for adding heels & sharpening gravers to achieve the precise cutting geometry needed for engraving.
The most common and traditional choice is a medium grit India stone, though diamond sharpening plates also work well as a modern alternative.
Arkansas Stones are also used for adding finer heels to some gravers
When using an India & Arkansas stones — kerosene is applied as a lubricant. It prevents the stone’s pores from clogging with metal particles, maintains a smooth cutting action, and allows for quick and easy cleanup of the stone afterward.
Recommended Links:
- Amazon - Norton Combination India Stone 8"
- Amazon - S SATC Diamond Sharpening Stone 2 Side Grit 400/1000 Diamond Plate 8-inch
- Amazon - DMT D8C Dia-Sharp Bench Stone - Coarse (325) - 8 x 3 x 0.38 Inches
- Amazon - Genuine Arkansas (Fine) Knife Sharpening Stone 8" x 2" x 1/2" in Wood Box
- Amazon - Plastic Squeeze Bottle Leak Proof, 250ml (For Kerosene)
Wood Block
After sharpening a graver on a stone, a simple block of wood is used to remove the burrs left on the tip. By scraping the graver’s cutting edge across the
surface of the wood.
Any scrap piece of wood will work, though harder woods such as pine, oak, or brass wood are preferred because they provide a firmer surface and produce cleaner results. The density helps remove the burr effectively while being gentle on the graver’s edge.
Recommended Links:
Polishing Emery Paper
Polishing the belly and heel of a high-speed steel graver is easily done using a piece of 4/0 emery paper taped to a flat sheet of metal.
Cut the emery paper to match the size of your sheet metal (16 gauge is recommended for good rigidity), then secure it at the top with regular Scotch tape.
It is important to keep the emery paper clean and free of any debris, dirt, or
metal particles, as even small contaminants can scratch the delicate surface
and ruin the finish.
Choosing an Engraving Block
An engraving block is a specialized rotating tool designed to securely grip and position small engravable objects while you perform detailed hand engraving, stone setting, or other precision jewelry work. The block typically features a set of adjustable steel jaws that expand and contract to hold pieces firmly at the perfect working angle. A heavy base provides stability, while a key is used to tighten and loosen the jaws. Its main function is to safely secure the object you're engraving, allowing you to rotate the work smoothly into your graver without needing to grip the piece itself while under the force and pressure from pushing the graver.
Key things to look for when choosing an Engraving Block
-
Size:
Choose a standard 5-inch diameter engraving block (avoid the smaller 3-inch or mini versions, as they are significantly less versatile for most jewelry work).
-
Includes a Base & Key:
Make sure the block comes with a base (usually rubber or leather) for stability and the original key/wrench for operating the jaws.
-
Don’t Get Hung Up on Extra Attachments:
Many blocks come with a variety of extra prongs, jigs, or specialty attachments. These are nice to have, but you won’t use most of them very often—focus on the core block rather than getting distracted by a big accessory kit.
-
Budget-Friendly Choice:
Select a block that fits comfortably within your current budget. There’s no need to go overboard and buy the most expensive new model right away. A good used or mid-range block will serve you well as you learn.
-
Invest Later if Needed:
You can always upgrade to a higher-quality or brand-new engraving block down the road once you’ve gained experience and know exactly what features matter most to you.
Pro Tip:
Although most major tool companies sell brand-new engraving blocks, I always recommend checking eBay first for good-quality second-hand options. You can often find excellent 5-inch blocks (complete with base and key) at a fraction of the new price, especially from jewelers upgrading their setups.
Wood Turn Table
If an engraving block is something you'd like to invest in later, you can build your own wood turn table that will work well especially early on when you're training on practice plates.
Linked below are instructions on how to build your own wood turntable.
Small Bench Tools & Accessories
Besides your gravers and engraving block, hand engraving requires a handful of additional tools & accessories used before, during and after engraving.
This includes drawing and scribing tools, lubrication, clean up materials, practice plates, magnification and more.
Below are the recommended starting items to get as well as some specs for what to shop for and some links for recommended products.
5% discount to Otto Frei ($100 minimum)
Coupon Code: HAZEL5 (valid through 12/31/2026)
Essential Tools Overview
- Scribe
- Adjustable Dividers
- Burnisher
- Ruler
- Fine Tip Sharpies
- Felt Tip Pens
- Dropper Bottle w/ Alcohol
- Kerosene Dish
- Dop Wax & Accessories
- Copper Practice Plates
- Magnification
Scribe
A scribe is a tool used to mark the design on metal before engraving. The scribe lines act as a guide so we know where to steel the graver. Very rarely will you freehand and
cuts with a graver. This is a step that takes precision and patience.
Scribes can be bought pre-made or you can make one from tools you may already have.
For example an old needle nose file, or a files down beading tool. You want your
scribe to be pointy but not TOO sharp. The goal is to have the tip of the scribe glide across the surface of the metal without scratching too deeply into the metal.
Recommended Links
Adjustable Dividers
Adjustable dividers are a tool used to scribe parallel lines, borders, circles, and to mark equal intervals for repeating patterns. Smaller, thinner models are preferred for
fine control. (3"-4" dividers)
It's recommend to modify your dividers by filing down the tips to make them thinner for better precision.
Recommended Links
Burnisher
A burnisher is a precision finishing tool used to repair superficial scratches, slips, and minor surface imperfections left by the graver.
By applying controlled pressure, the
polished curved tip compresses and smooths the surrounding metal, effectively erasing fine marks without removing material.
Recommended type:
2-Inch curved burnisher
Recommended Links
Ruler
A 6" clear plastic ruler is an essential layout tool used to locate center points and draw/scribe straight lines before engraving. Its transparency allows precise positioning by viewing the workpiece through the ruler, while the soft plastic prevents scratches or marks on the metal—unlike steel rulers. Also useful for tool making and measurements.
Recommended Links
Fine Tip Sharpies
A fine tip Sharpie is a practical marking tool used to lay out designs on metal prior to engraving. The semi-permanent ink allows clear marking of center points, measurements, and X/Y axis for lettering, while remaining visible during layout. It provides quick, precise guidance without damaging the surface and can be easily removed after engraving.
The sharpie ink will stick to the metal and not be wiped away if touched, allowing the design to be drawn over top the sharpie ink with felt tip pens. The ink wipes away cleanly with solvent or alcohol for quick corrections.
Recommended Links
Felt Tip Pens
Fine-tipped felt tip pens are used to draw detailed designs directly on metal. The ink adheres well to the surface yet wipes away with a finger tip for quick corrections, without disturbing underlying Sharpie guide lines.
Their thin tips enable precise layout
of patterns and lettering while working in tandem with semi-permanent Sharpie
marks for accurate engraving design layouts.
Preferred Brand:
Micron brand (black
ink, size 005–01)
Recommended Links
Dropper Bottle w/ Alcohol
A small dropper bottle filled with alcohol is an essential cleaning tool in hand
engraving. It is used to remove oils, dirt, and fingerprints from the metal surface so that ink adheres properly, to dissolve and clean off Sharpie guide lines, and to remove dop wax from jewelry pieces. Denatured alcohol is preferred for its effectiveness, though isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol works well
as a readily available alternative.
Recommended Links
Kerosene Dish
A small lidded dish containing a lightly kerosene-soaked cotton ball serves as a convenient graver lubricant station. The kerosene acts as an effective lubricant, reducing friction as the graver cuts through metal.
The cotton ball holds the kerosene while protecting the delicate graver tip from damage or scratching during repeated dips. This setup—whether in a tin, mint container, or any small lidded box—is used regularly throughout the engraving process to maintain smooth, controlled cutting.
Recommended Links
Dop Wax & Accessories
Green dop wax, commonly used in lapidary work, is a safe, affordable, and reusable adhesive for securely holding jewelry and small items during hand engraving.
It can be melted repeatedly with a small torch or heat gun, allowing easy repositioning or removal. The wax leaves little to no residue after use and is typically applied to small wooden blocks that can be firmly clamped into an engraving block.
Also use a smooth steel punch for smoothing melted wax, and adding anchor holes that will be used to remove jewelry or metal after engraving.
Recommended Links
Copper Practice Plates
Small copper practice plates serve as a primary canvas for developing hand engraving skills. Available in pre-cut squares or can be cut manually from larger sheets.
16 gauge copper is recommended for its thickness and durability.
All plates should be filed to smooth sharp corners and edges beforehand, as these can cause injury if the graver slips.
Brass is a viable alternative practice material, though its higher density makes it noticeably harder to cut, especially for beginners.
Recommended Links
Magnification
Magnification is critical in hand engraving for clear visibility of fine details, precise graver control, and accurate line work. Recommended tools include Optivisors, magnifying/reading glasses, and magnifying ring lights. These options support good posture and comfortable working angles, preventing neck and back strain during long sessions.
Microscopes are not recommended for traditional hand engraving, as they hinder the frequent angle adjustments needed for proper body-weight leverage and slow down workflow.
Recommended Links
Engraving Bench Setup
An ideal engraving bench setup starts with a sturdy, solid workbench that provides a stable, vibration-free surface with enough workspace for the piece, tools, and the inevitable scattering of fine metal chips.
Paired with it is a comfortable, height-adjustable chair that supports long hours of detailed handwork without causing fatigue.
Effective, shadow-free lighting should be
pointed directly at the work area to clearly illuminate the workspace.
Nearby tool storage keeps frequently used gravers and tools within easy reach while
housing them neatly organized and protected.
Engraving Bench / Desk
Bench / Desk
Chair
Lighting
Tool Organization & Storage
Engraving Block
The engraving block is the foundation of your workspace. It provides a stable, adjustable platform for securing your workpiece at the perfect angle.
Chair
A good chair for an engraving bench is one that prioritizes adjustability and long-term comfort. Look for a height-adjustable chair or stool so you can easily raise or lower the seat to match the engraving block height and maintain proper posture, especially when you need to shift angles for better leverage or access to difficult areas.
Whether you choose a padded office-style armchair or a sturdy drafting stool, the seat and back should provide excellent support to prevent fatigue and back strain during extended engraving sessions.
If the chair has fabric upholstery, removable seat covers or a protective cushion are highly recommended, as tiny sharp metal chips will inevitably embed themselves in the fabric over time.
Lighting
Good lighting is essential for detailed hand engraving work. The best setup uses two adjustable spotlights positioned on either side of the engraving area and aimed directly at the center of the work surface. This dual-light approach eliminates troublesome shadows that often occur with a single overhead light, ensuring clear visibility of fine lines and surface details on the metal.
Avoid relying solely on one large ceiling or overhead fixture, as it tends to cast shadows that can obscure your view.
As a helpful addition, a swing-arm magnifying lamp with built-in LED lighting can be kept nearby for close-up work when extra magnification and focused illumination are needed.
Engraving Bench / Desk
Tool Organization / Storage
Effective tool storage and organization are crucial for a smooth and safe engraving workflow. Graver tips are delicate and easily damaged, so they should be protected both while in use and when stored.
Ready-made tool holders or graver stands with multiple rows of holes make excellent desk-top solutions, keeping gravers upright (tip down), separated, and safely cradled to prevent tip damage.
A silicone soldering mat placed on the main work surface provides a cushioned, non-slip base for the tools currently in rotation while also helping contain the scattered metal chips produced during engraving. Additional small desktop organizer shelves, shallow drawers, or trays keep supplies neat and within easy reach. As your collection of engraving tools inevitably grows, take time to adjust the layout of your bench so that the most frequently used items remain comfortable and immediately accessible.
Engraving Bench Setup
An ideal engraving bench setup starts with a sturdy, solid workbench that provides a stable, vibration-free surface with enough workspace for the piece, tools, and the inevitable scattering of fine metal chips.
Paired with it is a comfortable, height-adjustable chair that supports long hours of detailed handwork without causing fatigue.
Effective, shadow-free lighting should be
pointed directly at the work area to clearly illuminate the workspace.
Nearby tool storage keeps frequently used gravers and tools within easy reach while
housing them neatly organized and protected.
Essential Tools
Work Bench / Desk
Chair
Lighting
Tool Storage & Organization
Work Bench / Desk
An engraving bench/desk should be a sturdy, solid table dedicated specifically for hand engraving, providing a stable, vibration-free surface that remains rock-steady under the pressure of gravers and hammers.
Unlike a traditional jeweler’s bench, which often positions the engraving block too low for comfortable long-term work, this desk can sit at standard desk height or slightly higher for better ergonomics.
An attached hutch or raised back panel is highly recommended, as it helps contain the fine metal chips that scatter during engraving, keeping the workspace cleaner and preventing precious metals from spreading. Built-in shelving above the work surface and a few shallow drawers below offer convenient storage for tools, supplies, and accessories, keeping everything organized and within easy reach while maintaining a dedicated space solely for engraving work.
Recommended Links
- Amazon - SPECRAFT Adjustable Heavy Duty Workbench
- Amazon - 60" Workbench with Drawers
- Amazon - Roll Top Desk Solid Oak Wood Writing Desk
- Amazon - Roll Top Desk Executive Solid Dark Oak Wood
- Amazon - 67"H Farmhouse Executive Desk with Hutch
- Amazon - Betterhood Adjustable L-Shaped Workbench, Rubber Wood Top
Chair
A good chair for an engraving bench is one that prioritizes adjustability and long-term comfort. Look for a height-adjustable chair or stool so you can easily raise or lower the seat to match the engraving block height and maintain proper posture, especially when you need to shift angles for better leverage or access to difficult areas.
Whether you choose a padded office-style armchair or a sturdy drafting stool, the seat and back should provide excellent support to prevent fatigue and back strain during extended engraving sessions.
If the chair has fabric upholstery, removable seat covers or a protective cushion are highly recommended, as tiny sharp metal chips will inevitably embed themselves in the fabric over time.
Lighting
Good lighting is essential for detailed hand engraving work. The best setup uses two adjustable spotlights positioned on either side of the engraving area and aimed directly at the center of the work surface. This dual-light approach eliminates troublesome shadows that often occur with a single overhead light, ensuring clear visibility of fine lines and surface details on the metal.
Avoid relying solely on one large ceiling or overhead fixture, as it tends to cast shadows that can obscure your view.
As a helpful addition, a swing-arm magnifying lamp with built-in LED lighting can be kept nearby for close-up work when extra magnification and focused illumination are needed.
Tool Storage & Organization
Effective tool storage and organization are crucial for a smooth and safe engraving workflow. Graver tips are delicate and easily damaged, so they should be protected both while in use and when stored.
Ready-made tool holders or graver stands with multiple rows of holes make excellent desk-top solutions, keeping gravers upright (tip down), separated, and safely cradled to prevent tip damage.
A silicone soldering mat placed on the main work surface provides a cushioned, non-slip base for the tools currently in rotation while also helping contain the scattered metal chips produced during engraving. Additional small desktop organizer shelves, shallow drawers, or trays keep supplies neat and within easy reach. As your collection of engraving tools inevitably grows, take time to adjust the layout of your bench so that the most frequently used items remain comfortable and immediately accessible.
Extra Credit Tools
Non-essential tools that I highly recommend using but aren't necessary for engraving
Silicone Sildering Mat
A precision vise designed to securely hold small items during engraving. Features adjustable jaws and a rotating base for optimal positioning.
Tiny Vacuum
These tiny vacuums are a MAJOR hack for cleaning up metal bits that scatter on our benches while engraving.
Marketed for artists, these tiny rechargeable vacuums are strong enough to pick up the small bits of metal so that we can contain and collect all the scraps both to keep our spaces clean as well as easy collection for sending scraps into the refineries.
Chair Mat
To help contain the inevitable mess created by long hours of engraving, protecting your floors is an important thing to consider before causing accidental damage to your space.
Later on when engraving on precious metals it's important that all scraps can be collected as efficiently as possible so they can be sent into a refinery.
By having a designated chair mat that will be able to act as a barrier/safe space for these metal bits to be imbedded in, the mat can later be cut up and sent in for refining.
Jeweler's File
While not technically required, having a good size file is extremely helpful for softening the corners and edges of all practice plates.
When your graver slips you don't want to be slicing your hand and fingers on sharp metal - so I strongly recommend you always prepare your practice plates before engraving on them.
Scotch-Brite
Scotch-Brite is an abrasive sponge that can. be found in most grocery stores. This is a handy sponge to use for cleaning any oxidization or dirt off your copper/brass practice plates. It's easier to hold on to than regular sand paper and lasts a long time. A good low-cost yet effective scrubby to have nearby.
Recommended Links
