Metal Engraving Scroll Patterns

C Scroll

• The C Scroll is patterned after the English letter C, with the ends folding inward in a loop or curve. In a simple design, the C Scroll is repeated over and over without any variation. Many designs use the C Scroll as a base, and then add floral, fruit or other patterns or designs to the base design. In a small picket C scroll, two C scroll patterns are placed back to back, spaced a few inches apart, and then welded together by a narrow, rectangular piece of metal.

S Scroll

• The S Scroll is inspired by the letter S. The S Scroll can vary, in that the upper and bottom curvatures can be the same size, or the upper part can have a smaller curve and the bottom part can have a larger curve. S Scrolls are connected to each other to build a large, intricate design that can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical.

Vine Scroll

• A vine scroll is inspired by a natural or floral look. Much like the vine from a tree or vineyard, the vine scroll is a repetitive pattern of loops and curves, often detailed with flower or leaf engravings that branch off the vine. Fruits and vegetables, such as grapes or corn, are sometimes used in vine scroll patterns to create a countryside-inspired piece of metal work.

Eastern Scroll Patterns

• Karakusa is a motif similar to the Western vine or floral scroll motif. This motif originated in parts of Central Asia, India, Persia and Arabia, and is found in Japanese and Chinese metalwork. These patterns are characterized by a repetitive flower-and-leaf motif, connected together by continuous scrolling vines, with lotus flower, plum, camellia, bamboo, Chrysanthemum, pine and other vegetation and symbols native to that region. Other variations of this pattern are the cloud-scroll motif, double-clove motif and a vine scroll that forms a circular pattern.

Scroll Banner

• A scroll banner is used as a name plate or brand to show the metal work's identification and ownership, such as on a watch, gun or sword. The name of the owner or brand is engraved inside a banner that resembles an unfolded banner or scroll. The banner is then surrounded by an array of engraved detailed scroll patterns for aesthetic purposes to create an ornate, colonial or other antique look. The cartouche was a variation of the scroll banner used in ancient Egypt, which was an oval circle that resembled an opened scroll that contained the inscription of someone's name — usually a pharaoh.