This loupe by Sam Alfano illustrates one of the many ways a blank piece of metal can be transformed into an artistic canvas. Alfano engraved this as a demonstration at Baselworld 2008. He used several basic engraving techniques to distinguish objects in the foreground from those in the background.

With a simple stippling and burnishing method, Alfano has "pushed" these tiny flowers and leaves into the background. This creates depth and makes the flowers in the foreground stand out that much more. By using a method like stippling, he can even create a faint shadow behind a leaf that breaks through the border.

A small difference like this adds an interesting effect that can range from simple to more challenging depending on the complexity of your design. Sam Alfano is an accomplished engraver who also teaches courses at the GRS Training Center. Find out more about Sam Alfano on www.grstrainingcenter.com or visit his iGraver.com website for great tips and tricks for engravers.