[norson]

When I first began making canes I was using metal letter/number "stamps" to stamp letter-by-letter into the shank for ID purposes. But that was not satisfactory - for the stamping was 100% dependent upon the grains, etc., and I looked for a better way. For more than a year now, I've been printing semi-clear shipping labels and then sticking them to the shaft between polyurethane coats #3 and #4, etc.

But I'm looking for a better way to identify these canes...on a more permanent basis.

Any suggestions?

Thanx

-neb

ps - please do not suggest carving. I cannot carve!

 

[Rodnogdog]

It's not cheap, but a custom branding iron is the best way I can think of. See the link below for an example; I'm sure other companies must make them too.

http://www.rockler.com/project-supplies/wood-branding-irons?sid=v9100&gclid=CJmRiImcl8kCFdgKgQodAtIFPg

 

[norson]

One of the difficulties with labeling is the surface is round - it's a stick! - so even engraved brass labels wouldn't work, I'm thinking.

Thanx

-neb

 

[LilysDad]

Why can't you 'carve' a flat spot?

 

[Rodnogdog]

One of the difficulties with labeling is the surface is round - it's a stick! - so even engraved brass labels wouldn't work, I'm thinking.
Thanx
-neb

They make branding irons curved and if using a flat iron, just roll/rock it across the piece.

 

[gdenby]

The stamped letters don't look too bad. But I do know that if used over tough grain, they might not make a clean impression. Considering that you already have some, maybe try heating those, and burning the characters in. It would be more tedious than using a single iron, but more versatile.

 

[cobalt]

You could try using ukibori technique .It is a Japanese technique

try using a metal stamp you can get small letters then punch the letters into the wood leaving a depression in the wood , sand it back nearly level to the wood .Get a brush dip it in boiling water and quickly brush the boiling water on the depression .This swells the depression in the wood and lifts it above the surface of the wood so you have a mark.

I have used this technique for decorating a griffin it works well . and takes most finishes/

 

[Rodney]

A custom branding iron was my first thought.

Another solution would to be to use water slide decals instead of shipping labels. It's a little more work and possibly expense than shipping labels but the decal should be pretty much invisible if it's applied correctly. You can buy decal paper for your printer either on line or at places like Hobby Lobby.

Rodney

 

[MJC4]

I have a writing tip for my wood burner. Does a satisfactory job with my initials and the year. I try to keep my labeling on a stick to a minimum. I pick an area at the bottom of the stick so as my makers mark does not detract from the look of the piece. As all my pieces come with a lanyard I use a piece of florist wire to attach a business card to the lanyard with a description of the piece and wood type. e.g: Pine wood spirit topper on hickory staff.