![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-86.jpg?v=1716998767&width=1500)
Step one
Start With an Image
I begin with a photograph or my own drawing. I transfer that image by hand onto tracing paper, giving me a line drawing. This process can take up to 6 hours depending on the complexity of the image.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-85.jpg?v=1716998845&width=1500)
Step two
Prep the Metal
I prepare the metal (a buttery soft Pewter/Tin alloy) by marking the work space and borders of the image.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-66.jpg?v=1716999514&width=1500)
Step Three
Transfer the Image
I then transfer the image onto the metal, giving me a reference to work from. I do this by lightly tracing the mirror image of my design on the back of the metal.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-69_1e0a056b-43d2-435f-a354-f16bfebf663b.jpg?v=1716998939&width=1500)
Step four
Make Some Magic
Using a variety of tools, I push from the back of the piece and refine from the front to create a three dimensional metal design. This process can take 20+ hours depending on the complexity and size of the design.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-73.jpg?v=1716999004&width=1500)
Step Five
Make it Last
Once all the repousse work is finished, I fill in the back so my hard work won't collapse over time. This is done in two steps to make sure every detail is protected. I let the backing dry and sand down any excess.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-63.jpg?v=1716999133&width=1500)
Step Six
Paint on the Patina
I patina (or color) the piece to make all the details pop.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-80_7421e41f-8744-4326-b0b4-b6053475653b.jpg?v=1716999212&width=1500)
Step Seven
Building Color
Once I start painting the patina on I then have to polishing it off, leaving the deep black color of the patina in any recesses. I usually do this process many times on a piece to create a variety of tones.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-82.jpg?v=1717009526&width=1500)
Step Eight
Finish it Up
I then mount the finished product on a piece of wood to create a wall hanging or a table object.
![](http://hillarydavenportdesigns.com/cdn/shop/files/image-84.jpg?v=1716999340&width=1500)