How to make a simple tin sign ?

[Jeanke]

Hey all,

I'm in the middle of trying to get an old vise up to standard. Based on the feedback of this board, it is most likely a parker vise. However 'parker co' was not molded in the vise itself, but signs were slapped on both sides of the jaw, approx 100 years ago. Those signs are long gone in any case.

So I was thinking, just for fun, to make two small signs to put on each side of the vise.

Does anyone here know if I can just take, say a can of beer/coke/.... cut it open, use the inside and 'paint' that with standard metal paint? Or am I missing something?

Or does anyone have another super effective way of doing this? Please note I do not own a lot of specialty equipment

In advance, many thanks!

 

[Richard D]

How about etched brass plates?
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=540911

 

[INYER face hole]

I believe the inside of soda or beer cans are prayed with something to keep the aluminum taste out of the liquid. You may have to sand and primer the surface.

 

[toomanytoyzz]

Find it hard to believe that the maker's stamp has worn off. They were pretty pronounced when made as well as a pretty smooth casting. Post up some pics. I'm thinking it never had any markings on it.

If you can have it ID'd 100% I'd just paint it on the vise itself. First, trace it with a stabilo pencil from a printout. Go to an art supply store and get a paint pen in the color of your choice.

 

[zkling]

Do you have an example picture of what you are trying to replicate? I did a quick google search but couldn't come up with the signs you are referring to.

I wouldn't use a can, you will never get the metal truly flat since it was formed in the can shape. Just purchase a small piece of aluminum sheet. If you are resourceful find something you can rob a piece of sheet metal off of.

As for the lettering, I don't fully picture what you are trying to do, but maybe try talking to member Fyrme on here. He made some really pro looking decals for an old craftsman bench grinder, which used a metal name tag. I think he used a common ink jet printer and a computer to print them out. Special paper or something was needed. I really don't know to be honest with you.