I’ve started using a branding iron with my logo to mark my work. Here are some things I’ve learning that may help you if you’ve thought about using a branding iron.
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I’ve recently started using a branding iron to mark my woodworking. If you're thinking of using a branding iron, there are a couple of things you’ll need to consider. First, you’ll need a relatively simple logo, or signature. Logos or signatures with too many loops or too tight of a radius between letters and figures can become muddled when branded onto wood. Keep the lettering and shapes simple with easily definable space between objects. You’ll then need the artwork to be converted to a vector graphic so that your branding iron company can produce the iron.
To properly brand your work, you'll need a heat source and a method to apply even pressure across the whole image. I use a Bernzomatic TS8000KC Premium Torch Kit as my heat source. Many branding iron companies will offer an electric heat source. However, I feel as though using propane torch produces a lot of heat in a relatively fast amount of time.
Using a Bernzomatic Torch Kit as a heat source.
To apply even pressure across the entire logo, I chuck my branding iron into my drill press. My branding iron actually came with a handle but I am unable to apply even pressure using the included handle. Once the iron is chucked into my drill press, I’ll use my torch to heat up the iron.
Using the drill gives me great results and ensures that I don’t create an uneven brand.
Here’s an example of an uneven brand. I you are using a drill press, you’ll need to adjust your iron, the chuck setup, or your drill press table.
If the iron is too hot, or applied for too long, you’ll get an overburn. You can try to fix this problem by sanding to clean up the excess burning.
If you get an underburn and using a drill press, you can reapply the iron so long as you haven’t moved your workpiece.
A properly applied brand will give you a clear logo that will remain on your workpiece for life.