How to Make a Repeating Pattern on a Piece of Sheet Metal

Industrial & Manufacturing Blog

Repetitive patterns on a piece of sheet metal can be beautiful and eye catching. Patterned pieces of sheet metal can work as ceiling tiles, kitchen splashbacks, metal wall paneling or in a range of other applications. However, you may be wondering how to get a consistent pattern on your sheet metal. Here are some ideas to explore:

1. Use a Pattern Feature on Your Software

If you are using software to design your sheet metal, you may want to look for a pattern feature. Most software has some type of feature or command that allows you to copy and repeat a design.

In some cases, you can copy the whole face of a design, and the software makes repeated copies of that. With the face command, you can modify the original design you put in, and the software will change all of the copies of that design on the template.

Then, the software links to your sheet metal moulding machine, and it creates the design you want.

2. Draw a Grid and Use a Die

Without software, you can still create a repeating pattern fairly easily on sheet metal. You need a sturdy piece of sheet metal. If it's too thin, it may rip whilst you're pounding on the die.

Start by creating a die. A die is a piece of metal that has the shape you want on it. You can make dies by cutting another piece of metal or you can buy premade dies.

Basically, once the die is ready, you hammer it into the sheet metal, and it creates an indention. Make sure the hammer you use is larger than the die. To determine where to put the die, you need to make a grid on the sheet metal. Ideally, each square should be large enough to accommodate the die and leave some extra room as desired for spacing.

Grab a tape measure and make lines equally spaced apart on one side of the sheet metal. Repeat on the opposite using the same spacing. Draw lines between the markings. Now, your sheet metal should be covered with horizontal lines. Repeat these steps in the other direction, and when you're done, there should be a grid of lines. Take the die and stamp it into each square of your grid.

The second option is fun but time-consuming, and the first option requires software that not everyone has access to. If you want help making a repeating pattern on sheet metal, contact a professional to help you.

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