A shim is a thin and often tapered or wedged piece of material, used to fill small gaps or spaces between objects. Shims are typically used in order to support, adjust for better fit, or provide a level surface. Shims may also be used as spacers to fill gaps between parts subject to wear.

1. How to make and use a Metal Shim
A shim is a thin and often tapered or wedged piece of material, used to fill small gaps or spaces
between objects. Shims are typically used in order to support, adjust for better fit, or provide a level
surface. Shims may also be used as spacers to fill gaps between parts subject to wear.
Many materials make suitable shim stock, or base material, depending on the context: wood, stone,
plastic, metal, or even paper.
You can make shims from many different types of metals. Metals such as: Steel, Stainless Steel or
even Aluminum. Often time Shims are made using die machines which use lasers to then cut your
shims. For those at home trying to make a shim quickly using an empty soda can also an excellent
choice.
You begin by using a scissors and cutting the top and bottom all the way the can off. To maximize the
metal you have to work with, try to avoid cutting too much into the flat part of the can’s side. Take
your time when cutting the shims. The straighter and smoother your cuts, the better your shims will
work. You’ll also be able to make more shims per can if you’re careful with your cuts. Cut a straight
vertical line down the side of the can. Try to make the cut as straight as possible––many cans have a
“seam” that you can use as a guide. You want to be able to flatten out the piece of metal into a
rectangle. Cut the metal rectangle in half with a line running the long way of the rectangle. Divide the
metal into two long strips. Cut the strips into squares. You should be able to make four or five squares,
each about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5cm) on each side. Make sure the edges are smooth and straight. Cut an
M-shaped design on half of the square. Aim to create the point of the shim by cutting out two humps a
little bit in from each side of metal (see picture). Try to make the cuts as smooth as possible, and try to
get rounded humps, as opposed to pointed triangles. Fold the uncut part in half. The fold should bring
it down just above the humps of the “M”. This will be the handle. Fold the outside flaps of the M up
over the piece you just folded down. Bend the flaps back and away from you, over the handle piece.
That is how to make a shim using Aluminum.
For over 100 years, Phoenix Specialty has produced quality part for the following industries,
Aerospace, Agriculture, Automotive, Building Products, Compressors, Consumer Products,
Distribution, Electrical, Electronics, Energy, Machinery & Process Equipment, Medical, Motors, and
Pump, Components such as Washers, Shims and Precision Stampings.