[Jeff Johnson]

We see lots of swords that have designs on the blades - ranging from simple makers marks to intricate designs. What I'd like to know is what documented techniques were used to create them. Some of the simple ones as makers marks, are probably stamped in while the steel is hot. But the more intricate and larger designs don't lend themselves to stamping. So, I'd suspect either they were cut into the metal or etched. What's documentable for the late medieval period - 1300-1500?

And, we also see many filled gravings; copper alloys, gold, & other soft metals - would these be added hot (like solder), or simply hammered into the etched area?

[Sean Flynt]

drumroll..............................................

http://www.myArmoury.com/feature_armsarts.html

Read the whole piece, but take special note of the "Decorative Techniques" section.

[Ryan A. C.]

I love this place.

[Patrick Kelly]

We love you too.

[Ryan A. C.]

Thanks, yeah that's it thanks.... Seriously though, I know of no other place on the web that I can get access to the amount of information available to me on this one site.