Prepping your Rawhide Mallet

When it comes to metalsmithing and jewelry making, having the right tools in proper condition makes all the difference. A rawhide mallet is an essential tool in any jeweler's arsenal, serving as a non-marking hammer that allows you to shape metal without leaving unwanted marks. However, before putting your new rawhide mallet to work, it needs proper preparation to achieve the optimal working surface. In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of breaking in and conditioning your rawhide mallet for the best results.

Why Prep Your Rawhide Mallet?

A new rawhide mallet typically comes with a hard, smooth surface that isn't ideal for jewelry work. Proper preparation:

Removes the surface texture that could transfer to your metal
Softens the mallet head for better control
Creates a more effective non-marking surface
Extends the life of your tool
Personalizes the mallet to your specific working style

Materials You'll Need

New rawhide mallet
Hard surface (concrete curb, metal block, or anvil edge)
Container of water large enough for the mallet head
Sandpaper (multiple grits: 220, 320, 400)
Clean workspace

Step 1: Initial Breaking-In

Begin by breaking down the hard outer surface of your mallet:

Find a sturdy surface like a concrete curb, metal block, or anvil edge
Start at one end of the mallet face
Strike the surface repeatedly with moderate force
Work your way methodically across the entire face
Change angles as you go, hitting in different directions
Repeat on both faces of the mallet

Pro Tip: The goal here is to begin breaking open the fibers of the rawhide, not to damage the mallet. Use controlled, deliberate strikes.

Step 2: Soaking the Mallet Head

After the initial breaking-in:

Fill a container with enough water to submerge just the mallet head
Dunk only the rawhide portion, keeping the wooden handle dry if possible
(Water can affect the wood of the handle, potentially causing swelling or warping)
Allow the head to soak for a couple of hours
Remove from water

Pro Tip: If you must submerge part of the handle, dry it thoroughly afterward to prevent damage.

Step 3: Secondary Breaking-In

With the mallet head now softened from soaking:

Return to your hard surface
Repeat the striking process from Step 1
You'll notice the mallet is more pliable and responsive now
Continue until you feel the surface becoming more uniform

Step 4: Sanding the Surface

If you've been using concrete for breaking-in, you might notice small bits of gravel or debris embedded in the mallet. To clean and further condition the surface:

Start with coarse sandpaper (220 grit)
Rub the entire face of the mallet across the sandpaper
Pay special attention to the edges, helping them to roll slightly
Progress to finer grits (320, then 400) for a smoother finish
Sand both faces and the edges of the mallet head

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

The conditioning process isn't necessarily completed in one session:

Assess the softness and texture of your mallet
If needed, repeat the soaking, hammering, and sanding process
Continue until you achieve your desired surface texture

Maintaining Your Mallet Over Time

Your rawhide mallet will develop its own unique character over time based on:

Whether you're right or left-handed
The types of metals you work with
The techniques you commonly use

You may notice the mallet face becoming uneven with use - this is normal and actually helps the mallet conform to your specific working style.

Final Thoughts

A properly prepared rawhide mallet is an invaluable tool that will serve you well for years to come. The time invested in conditioning your mallet will pay dividends in the quality of your metalwork, allowing you to shape metal precisely without unwanted marks or damage.

Remember that this is a tool that evolves with use - embrace the unique personality your mallet develops as you work with it. With proper preparation and care, your rawhide mallet will become one of your most trusted companions at the jeweler's bench.

Happy hammering!