Punching holes in brass

[StarFire]

I recently purchased some brass stampings that I want to use to make bracelets.  The problem is, they have no holes in them to loop wire or other stringing materials through.  So, how do I put holes in them myself?  I know about Dremel tools and such, but I do not own any and am kind of afraid the metal could be too hard.  I saw hole punching kits at the hardware store where you use a hammer and the punch tool.

Basically, I really need to have a bracelet done by the 24th for my Aunt's wedding.  I really don't want to spend tons of money buying a Dremel setup for this project.  So, any suggestions? 

Here is a pic of the stamped piece.

[puamelia]

Nail and hammer?

[redstar13]

I recently purchased some brass stampings that I want to use to make bracelets.  The problem is, they have no holes in them to loop wire or other stringing materials through.  So, how do I put holes in them myself?  I know about Dremel tools and such, but I do not own any and am kind of afraid the metal could be too hard.  I saw hole punching kits at the hardware store where you use a hammer and the punch tool.

Basically, I really need to have a bracelet done by the 24th for my Aunt's wedding.  I really don't want to spend tons of money buying a Dremel setup for this project.  So, any suggestions? 

Here is a pic of the stamped piece.
http://www.craftster.org/pictures/data/500/629_14Aug11_7954hr.jpg

If you have a harbor freight near you, you can get a fake dremel for 6.99 (with their coupon/ 19.99 with out/ just google harbor freight coupon)

[april again]

I bet you can use one of these for it.

http://www.firemountaingems.com/details.asp?PN=H203084TL

They vary in quality obviously, but I have one I bought at a craft store and I have managed holes in smashed pennies and all sorts of stuff

Good luck!

[hgddm]

I think a hammer and nail would work just fine. Just make sure you get a nail with the tip that's the same size as the hole you want. Tap gently on the backside of the stamping so you don't make an indent in the raised part. You also might want to file around the hole so it's not sharp. Have fun!

[StarFire]

Wow!   Thanks for the replies, everyone!  I'm going to look into several of the suggestions.  I'll post the bracelet when I get it made!   

[StarFire]

Well, I tried the nail method.  The nails bent and only left a little dimple in the brass piece.     Guess I need to look into a metal punch.   

[appatite]

I think your best option is a small drill, it'll save you a lot of stress and is a decent investment for future projects. Get something akin to a Dremel/dremel like device, and you won't be sorry about it.

[StarFire]

I broke down and bought a Dremel 7300.   Also got the tiny drill bits and extra collets.   I feel lazy tonight, so I'm going to try breaking it in tomorrow!

[CraftyMcCrafterson]

Dremels are awesome! You can sand and twist wire...all kinds of things! Oh yes, and drilling