Are you looking to begin a new hobby working with sheet metal? Perhaps you want to make metal sculptures or useable items. Maybe you have a project that you need to construct but don't want to employ sheet metal workers to do the job.

If you've never worked with sheet metal, you may be wondering where to start. Well, tools are the first thing you'll need, but surprisingly you won't need many to start. This guide will help you to choose a few simple tools to get you started.

Cutting Sheet Metal

Cutting metal can leave sharp, dangerous edges, so always do it well away from children and pets. Providing the metal you're cutting is thin, snips are the best way to go. Snips come in a variety of types and as your interest in working with sheet metal grows you may want to invest in a collection. However, when you're starting out, a simple pair of offset compound snips is best. The cutters are offset from the handles, so your hand remains above the metal. The compound action makes the cutting easier and allows you to work with thicker metal if needed. Always cut so the waste metal is on the same side as the hand you're using. So, for left handed people this is the left, and for right for right handed. It is important to ensure that the nut and pivot bolt are properly adjusted and that you periodically oil the bolt to keep your snips in good cutting condition.

Bending Sheet Metal

If your budget permits, you can invest in a sheet metal folder (brake). You can purchase a cornice brake which will allow you to make simple bends and creases, or a box-and-pan brake which will allow you to form more complex bends such as box and pan shapes.

If you don't want to lay out on this type of tool and have a work bench, then you can improvise. You'll use the edge of your workbench, two clamps, some wood, your hands and a mallet if a sharp bend is required.

Start by marking the bend line on the metal and placing it on the edge of your bench. Place the wood parallel to and slightly behind the line you've marked then clamp it to the workbench on top of the metal. Now you can use your hands to bend the metal to the desired angle. For a sharp angle, use the mallet to tap along the bend crease.