Dapping

Term from Jewelry Making industry explained for recruiters

Dapping is a basic jewelry making technique where metal is shaped into a dome or curved form using special tools called dapping blocks and punches. Think of it like creating a bowl shape from a flat piece of metal. This process is commonly used to make things like earring components, pendants, and decorative elements in jewelry. When you see this term in a resume, it shows that the person knows how to transform flat metal pieces into three-dimensional forms, which is a fundamental skill in jewelry making. Other terms you might see for similar work include "doming" or "metal forming."

Examples in Resumes

Created custom jewelry pieces using Dapping techniques for dome-shaped components

Trained junior craftspeople in Dapping and Metal Doming techniques

Specialized in Dapped metal components for high-end jewelry collections

Typical job title: "Jewelry Makers"

Also try searching for:

Jewelry Artist Metalsmith Silversmith Goldsmith Jewelry Craftsperson Metal Artist Bench Jeweler

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you train someone in dapping techniques while ensuring workplace safety?

Expected Answer: A senior craftsperson should discuss proper tool handling, material thickness considerations, safety equipment needed, and step-by-step training methods for different metal types and shapes.

Q: What considerations do you take when dapping different types of metals?

Expected Answer: Should explain how different metals respond to dapping (like silver vs. gold), thickness requirements, annealing needs, and problem-solving for complex shapes.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the common problems that can occur during dapping and how do you prevent them?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss issues like metal tearing, uneven doming, and proper preparation techniques to prevent these problems.

Q: How do you maintain dapping tools for optimal performance?

Expected Answer: Should explain cleaning procedures, storage methods, damage prevention, and how to identify when tools need replacement.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools are needed for dapping?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify dapping block, punches, mallets, and basic safety equipment needed for the process.

Q: Describe the basic steps of dapping a piece of metal.

Expected Answer: Should explain measuring and cutting metal, starting with larger punches and working down to smaller ones, and checking progress frequently.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic dapping techniques
  • Simple metal preparation
  • Tool maintenance
  • Basic safety procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex shape formation
  • Multiple metal types expertise
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Quality control procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced metalworking techniques
  • Training and supervision
  • Custom design solutions
  • Production optimization

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic metal properties
  • Lack of attention to safety procedures
  • Unable to maintain tools properly
  • No experience with different metal gauges
  • Poor understanding of quality control