How to Make Stamped Dog Tags

Dog tags are common military inspired pieces that are worn on chains as necklaces. Any information you want can be stamped into a dog tag. With a metal embossing press, you can customize dog tags for yourself and give them out as gifts as well. Anything from your name, address, or even a special saying can be engraved and worn as a memento. Dog tags work well as medical IDs also to alert paramedics of any medical conditions or allergies.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal embossing press
  • Blank tags
  • Metal keychain rings
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a manual metal embossing press with numbers and letters. These can be found easily online.

    • 2

      Purchase a few blank dog tags and a few beaded chains. You can find these at military surplus stores or order them in bulk online.

    • 3

      Read the operating instructions for your metal embossing press.

    • 4

      Configure the letters and numbers on the character press exactly how you want them to appear on the tag. Each metal press will vary, but most will have room for three to four lines of text. Make sure to include all of the text you want to end up on the tag.

    • 5

      Place a tester tag into the hopper of the press as directed in the instructions. Move the lever firmly down and stamp the text onto the tag. Raise the lever and see how well the text was stamped and if it's positioned well in the center of the tag.

    • 6

      Use the tester tag to find the correct placement of the tag in the hopper by adjusting it and re-stamping over your existing work until the perfect position is found.

    • 7

      Remove the tester tag and use a brand new tag to stamp the information on the new tag. Once it's done, slide the dog tag onto your chain.