Transfer the finished design to your metal. Saw out your shape, then file and sand the edges. Work the metal to the desired surface finish. Place the object on the base to check the shape, and refine the base as needed (Figure 1).
Hold the base and object firmly in place with your nondominant hand. Use nylon-jaw pliers to bend a tab up nearly 90°. Repeat to bend the tab opposite the first tab. Continue bending the tabs, alternating sides as you go (Figure 2).
Use a bezel pusher or burnisher to press the bottom of the tab against the object. Whatever tool you use should be solid enough to push the metal without marring it. Continue pressing the tabs around the piece, alternating sides as you go.