Historically, two processes have allowed the manufacture of patterned metal, starting with a search for improving sword blades: the wootz blade making technique and the forge welding process to laminate blades are both reviewed. The second process was refined by the Japanese for their Samurai swords. Nonferrous lamination, its Japanese origins, and subsequent development involving the use of different metals -- including precious metals -- along with chemically produced patination to achieve richer color variations, are the main subjects of the article. The author describes in detail his work with 18 carat gold, discussing the fact that the possibilities of pattern development for <i>mokume-gane</i>, or wood-grained metal, are limitless. -- AATA