How to Make Model License Plates

Using a pair of scissors, cut out a piece of aluminum can that is the size of the license plate you wish to make. Grip the license in a pair of needle-nose pliers and use the Dremel to sand off the rough edges from the plate. Remove all burs and, to reduce the risk of injury, dull the edge using a sanding disk on your Dremel.

Research the type of license plate you would like to make and select a design. Use a file on the edge of the head of a nail to make it flat. Hold the nail on the shaft and lightly tap out the letters and numbers using the head of the nail. If the shape of the nail head you are using does not suit you, use the file to adjust the shape. You can also make a curved edge and hold the nail upside down with a slight tilt to hold the edge against the metal sheet.

With the license facing up, place the plate onto a piece of scrap wood. Use a small, gentle tap on the head of a nail to drive a filed-down tip into the four corners of the plate for screw holes. For larger cars, screws from optical repair kits can be used. For smaller cars, the hole might have to be a small dent from behind to hint at a screw.

Use sandpaper to scuff up the metal and use acrylic paint to paint the license plate so that it matches the one you researched and selected. Make sure that you allow the paint to dry well between coats. Use light coats of thinned-down paint and apply in layers. For smaller cars, instead of a paintbrush you might want to chew the tip of a wooden toothpick to make a small brush.

Abuse the license plate to match the level of damage the model is supposed to have. Use a hot glue gun, screws from glasses, or other means to attach the plate to the vehicle.