How to Print Words on Wood and Metal Using Stencils 

Wood and metal are long-lasting materials capable of preserving messages. There are four primary methods for writing on wood and metal: burning, painting, engraving, and acid etching. Each of these has advantages and disadvantages, but at least one will be suitable for your level of experience.

Selecting the method

If you are working on a printing project with children or if you are inexperienced, choose stencils and paints since they are safer than electrical instruments, hot pens, or acids. Wood-burning pens are the electronic equivalent of traditional branding irons, whereas electric metal etching pens literally chafe metal. Acid etching chemically erodes the metal’s surface. 

Using stencils

To print with stencils, place the stencil over the metal or wood and wipe it with a paintbrush dipped in paint. Do not load the brush with too much paint. To prevent the writing from smearing, remove the stencil by peeling it up rather than gliding it off. 

Using metal stencils for wood burning, you can also burn designs and patterns into the wood to create stunning woodcrafts. This project requires precision and concentration, but even a novice can complete it. The technique of burning designs into wood using stencils has been described below. You will need –

1. Wood burning equipment
2. Graphite paper
3.  Metal stencil
4. Tape
5. Eraser
6. Oil pencils (not compulsory)
7. Varnish

The process

• Acquire wood that has been prepared for use as fuel. This type of wood is available at numerous craft and hobby stores. 
• Pick a good small cutting tip. Affix it to your wood-burning device, and then plug it in to heat it for use.
• Put a piece of graphite paper (with the ink side down), over the section of the wood where the design will be. Tape it to the board using a low-tack, repositionable tape to prevent it from slipping while burning the design.
• Place a metal stencil of your preference on graphite paper.
• Place a metal stencil of your preference on graphite paper.
• Using your wood-burning tool like a pen, trace the outer side of the stencil on graphite paper. It will transfer the pattern to the wood. Remove any visible lines from the used graphite paper with an eraser.
• If desired, color the design with oil pencils. Start with a lighter color and gradually add more.
• Use varnish or another wood finish to seal the wood. Apply it sparingly so that the colors do not blend, and if required, use multiple thin coats rather than one thick one.

Etching metal with a pen

If you decide to etch metal with a pen, the metal must be well cleaned. By warming the metal and coating it lightly with oil, the risk of splintering is minimized. Avoid using too much force. Else, the pen may slip.

Acid etching

If you opt for acid etching, you have to cover the metal that you do not wish to be etched with melted wax. Then, etch the words into the wax until the engraving tool’s tip barely scrapes the metal beneath the wax. Before etching, give the wax at least a few hours to harden. Pour the acid into the etching and allow it to sit for at least ten minutes. Rinse the object and scrape off the wax with care.

Conclusion

The safest way to create what you desire would be the use of stencils. But if you are confident enough, you can undertake any of the procedures.