How to Mount Military Medals Yourself: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mounting military medals can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the process. However, with the right guidance and materials, it is possible to mount military medals yourself. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to mount military medals, including the necessary materials, tools, and techniques.
Why Mount Military Medals Yourself?
Before we dive into the process of mounting military medals, it’s essential to understand why you might want to do it yourself. Here are a few reasons:
- Cost-effective: Mounting military medals yourself can be a cost-effective option compared to hiring a professional.
- Personal touch: By mounting your own medals, you can add a personal touch and make it a meaningful experience.
- Flexibility: You can choose the design and layout of your medal mount to suit your personal preferences.
- Pride of ownership: Mounting your own medals can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Materials Needed
Before you start mounting your military medals, you will need the following materials:
- Medal mount board: This is the base material that you will attach your medals to. You can choose from various types of board, including velvet, felt, or cardboard.
- Medals: This is the most obvious material you will need. Make sure you have all the medals you want to mount.
- Ribbon: If your medals have ribbons, you will need to attach them to the medal mount board.
- Medal clips: These are small clips that you will use to attach the medals to the board.
- Hot glue gun: This is the tool you will use to attach the medals and ribbons to the board.
- Scissors: You will need scissors to cut the ribbon and any excess material.
- Measuring tape or ruler: This is used to measure the board and ensure that your medals are evenly spaced.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have all the necessary materials, it’s time to start mounting your military medals. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Prepare the Medal Mount Board
- Measure the board: Measure the medal mount board to determine the size and shape of the area where you will attach the medals.
- Cut the ribbon: Cut the ribbon to the desired length. You can use a ribbon that matches the ribbon on the medal or choose a different color to match your personal preferences.
- Attach the ribbon: Attach the ribbon to the medal mount board using hot glue. Make sure the ribbon is centered and evenly spaced.
Step 2: Attach the Medals
- Choose the medal clip: Choose the medal clip that best fits the medal. You can use a standard clip or a custom clip that is designed specifically for your medal.
- Attach the medal: Attach the medal to the medal clip using hot glue. Make sure the medal is securely attached and evenly spaced.
- Attach the medal to the board: Attach the medal to the medal mount board using hot glue. Make sure the medal is centered and evenly spaced.
Step 3: Add Additional Medals
- Repeat the process: Repeat the process of attaching the medals to the board, making sure to leave enough space between each medal.
- Use a template: If you are mounting multiple medals, you can use a template to ensure that they are evenly spaced.
Step 4: Add a Backing
- Cut a backing: Cut a piece of cardboard or felt to fit the back of the medal mount board.
- Attach the backing: Attach the backing to the back of the medal mount board using hot glue.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when mounting your military medals:
- Use a hot glue gun: A hot glue gun is the best tool for attaching the medals and ribbons to the board.
- Use a measuring tape or ruler: Use a measuring tape or ruler to ensure that your medals are evenly spaced.
- Use a template: If you are mounting multiple medals, use a template to ensure that they are evenly spaced.
- Leave space between medals: Leave enough space between each medal to ensure that they are not overlapping.
- Use a ribbon that matches the medal: Use a ribbon that matches the ribbon on the medal to ensure a professional-looking finish.
Conclusion
Mounting military medals yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to display your medals. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can create a beautiful and professional-looking medal mount that you can be proud to display. Remember to use the right materials, tools, and techniques, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little practice and patience, you can create a stunning medal mount that will be the envy of all your friends and family.
Table: Materials Needed
Material | Quantity |
---|---|
Medal mount board | 1 |
Medals | Varies |
Ribbon | 1 |
Medal clips | Varies |
Hot glue gun | 1 |
Scissors | 1 |
Measuring tape or ruler | 1 |
Table: Step-by-Step Guide
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Prepare the medal mount board |
2 | Attach the medals |
3 | Add additional medals |
4 | Add a backing |
Table: Tips and Tricks
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use a hot glue gun | Best tool for attaching medals and ribbons |
Use a measuring tape or ruler | Ensure medals are evenly spaced |
Use a template | Ensure medals are evenly spaced |
Leave space between medals | Prevent overlapping |
Use a ribbon that matches the medal | Professional-looking finish |