In a method for preparing a welded metal panel having a high surface quality a first metal blank and a second metal blank are disposed so that edge portions of the blanks are in an abutting relationship. The blanks are laser welded together utilizing a powdered metal filler so as to produce a weld seam which is convex. A portion of the seam is removed to produce a flush weld seam between the blanks. The hardness of the weld seam is determined, and if the hardness of the weld seam is more than the hardness of the remainder of the panel, the weld seam is tempered so as to reduce its hardness. The thus produced welded metal panel may be subjected to a further shaping operation such as stamping, bending or the like. After shaping, the article may be plated, painted or otherwise finished.