Brass rubbing is a traditional pastime but can be enjoyed by many nowadays. It can be a voyage of discovery to find the old churches and the different brasses they contain. Most brasses are portraits, usually full length ones and sometimes contain, heraldic symbols of the time. If you wish to go brass rubbing, it is best to seek permission with the local vicar, nowadays not all churches are open every day and some will not allow brass rubbing at the weekend.

Brass rubbing is quite a simple process, even so, it’s best to make sure you have the proper tools for the job before you set out. For those who are new to brass rubbing, lining paper sold in decorating shops will do,m masking tape, two dusters, a soft brush and hard black wax (sold in craft shops).

Cut the paper so that it can cover the brass, using the making tape stick it in place, making sure it’s completely flat. When rubbing the wax over the paper, rub across not along the lines. When your finished, make sure you clean up any flecks of wax left behind.

The rubbing can then be trimmed and framed to make an attractive wall hanging.