The finest stampings require artistry in steel. A detailed stamping uses a die carved from tool steel. The die contains every detail of the stamping: from the largest leaf to the tiniest kernel of wheat. For the very best stampings, a punch must then be carved in steel with every detail reversed, and a few thousandths of an inch smaller to allow for the thickness of the brass. This process - diesinking - requires weeks of painstakingly precise work; it is a trade that has, unfortunately, nearly vanished.

Frank A. Horton, founder of Horton Brasses, was an extraordinary diesinker. As a young man, he crafted dies and punches used in the production of the finest silverware. Later in life, he turned his talents to furniture hardware. We owe him our thanks.