Choosing the right metal type for your new custom good can be an overwhelming process, that requires a lot of research, comparisons, and making decisions based on that. While each metal piece has the potential to become a unique custom art project, there are specific limitations and characteristics that make them even more beautiful than they are.
Discover the unique characteristics of various types of metal and how they can transform your handmade metal art into masterpieces that stand the test of time.
Copper - The Timeless Reddish Beauty
Regarding the best types of metal art, copper offers excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, easy to work with, but still very durable because it develops a natural patina.
Use Cases:
Sculptures (large and small,) jewelry, mixed arts, and home projects. Goes well combined with wood, glass, and other materials.
Brass - Golden Finish and Elegant Look
A corrosion-resistant alloy of copper and zinc that looks good no matter how it's used, adding warmth to your home or office.
Use Cases:
Decorative items like ornaments, candlesticks, or vases. Great for hardware and fixtures for commercial metal art interiors.
Aluminum - Minimalist Design Champion
Lightweight and corrosion-resistant material that looks good, besides being easy to shape and finish into an art project.
Use Cases:
Ideal for wall art, as it's easy to cut, as well as large sculptures that don't need extensive support. Used in functional metal art, too, like furniture or home decor.
Mild Steel - Sustainable Form of Inexpensive Metal
Strong and durable material that can easily be welded and forged. But be careful - if not protected, it's easily prone to rusting.
Use Cases:
Outdoor sculptures and furniture, especially for those who prefer industrial-style decor. Also, it is great for structural art pieces that require strength and durability.
Stainless Steel - Modern and Industrial Design Pro
A corrosion-resistant metal, it is ideal for home wall art and custom projects. Also considered the best metal for outdoor sculptures by some, it's strong and durable and allows polishing to the smoothest surface possible.
Use Cases:
Contemporary sculptures, functional art for your home, custom furniture, and public art installations.
Bronze - Durable and Aesthetically Pleasing
Bronze is a well-known alloy - the best of the copper and tin. It's hard and brittle, but still an excellent choice because of its natural protective properties.
Use Cases:
Outdoor statues and monuments, artistic sculptures, small types of decorative metal and other elements, and significant handmade souvenirs.
Iron - Popular Choice With Recognizable Appearance
Abundant and relatively inexpensive metal, making a strong and durable material for many projects. Prone to rust, so ensure it's properly protected.
Use Cases:
Functional and industrial art, historical reproductions, outdoor artistic pieces, and different types of metal sculpture.
Is Metal Art an Investment?
Understanding various kinds of metal is great for DIY enthusiasts, home decor experts, real estate professionals, metalworking hobbyists, or everyone who wants to have a timeless piece for them.
Since the process from sketch to final artwork is long and time-consuming, but still very satisfying - it's also not really expensive. Metal art is an exceptional way to invest your money in a durable piece to have it for decades, and leave it to your kids and grandkids, ensuring they're protected for life.
What Metals Pair Best With Wood?
Do you want to combine metal craft materials with other materials? What about a beautiful brass and metal club table? Or maybe a combination of wooden frames and metal creative crafts for your wall?
- Brass has a warm golden tone that complements the natural wooden shades and is great for furniture accents, decorative elements, and frames
- Copper's reddish tone pairs with darker woods like walnut or cherry, for a rustic aesthetic and interior decorations
- Bronze works perfectly with wood, especially with deeper tones, giving your space a sophisticated and sleek look
Do you have some special ideas? Share them with us, so we can turn them into a reality!
Complete Custom Metals That Pair Best With Glass
Glass and metal are a combination of your dreams. They go so well together, providing support, transparency, and undeniable aesthetics in your home.
- Stainless steel goes excellently with glass, especially with window shades and frames, furniture, or custom metal-glass arts
- Aluminum is pretty versatile, making it a perfect pair with glass, for light fixtures and modern wall decor
- Copper is a complete contrast to glass, and that's why they go so well together, making a perfect pair for traditional and avant-garde crafts
Have you found your favorite combination?
Knowing now what is metal art, do you now know what metal you like best?
It's time to take a huge step and choose metal art and custom crafts, enriching your living space, office, store, or even backyard!