Crimping @museum.de

Imagine you want to make a round tin can and join the various parts of the can. The base of the can, for example, needs to be given an edge that can later be joined to the body. And making that edge is called "crimping".

First, the area where you are going to make the edge is delineated or scribed – that is, marked with a pointed instrument. Then you need two things: a seaming stake with a rounded edge at the top, and a wooden hammer. The seaming stake is clamped in the vice, the sheet metal disc is offered up at the marked point and slowly beaten using multiple short blows.

Again, patience and a sure touch are required, because it takes several steps to raise an edge at a 90-degree angle to the base plate. You gradually work your way towards the desired outcome by constantly turning the piece. The workpiece must always sit at an acute angle towards the seaming stake. And if, after several turns, the piece has become slightly deformed, a few gentle strokes on the newly created edge are enough to flatten it again.

Once the rim has been raised at a nice 90-degree angle, it's time to join the base of the can to the side section.

So much for the theory! Perhaps you'd like to try for yourself? By all means, go ahead!