Etching is a system of making designs and patterns on a metal surface using chemicals. Etching a self-made design into a metal can be a tough task, but once you finish the project, you will love the complete work.
But before you start with the task you need to know some tips. The first thing is selecting the metal, choosing the etchants, then transferring the image with resist and finishing the project. To get better ideas for jewelry etching you can check some blogs and DIY videos. However, you can also check the tips in this article to prepare for the etching work.
WHAT METALS TO USE?
Etching chemicals can cut through the surface of the metal, and for that, you have to choose a sheet or plate that is thick to endure the pressure and can bring out the design. Experts suggest using 22 gauge or thicker metal plates also, use pre-cut metal blanks. If you use ferric chloride then you can use metal sheets such as 22-Gauge Brass Blanks, 20-Gauge Nickel Silver Sheet, 22-Gauge Copper Blanks, 14 to 20 Gauge Copper Blanks, 18 to 22 Gauge Copper Blanks, 19 Gauge Copper Blanks, 14 to 20 Gauge Copper Blanks, 20 to 22 Gauge Brass Sheet.
If you use 24 gauge pre-cut blanks or sheet metal, it will also work. You just have to leave the metal plate in chemical for a while. For better information contact a CHEMICAL ETCHING SUPPLIER.
CHOOSE THE PROPER ETCHANT
Ferric chloride is the best chemical for metal etching. This is known as an etchant, and you have to use it to cut the metal and create beautiful designs on the jewelry. It’s crucial to match the metal sheet with a proper etchant. This is because the same metal plate will react differently to different etchants.
You can use ferric chloride on nickel silver, brass and copper. You can use nitric acid or ferric nitrate on 925 sterling silver, 999 fine silver. These etchants are dangerous than ferric chloride.
WHAT IS THE TYPE OF RESIST?
A resist is used to protect particular parts of the metal sheets with the etchant. These are usually tapes and inks. With the help of the resists, you can apply the design and ink to the metal plate. Then, when you dip the metal into the chemical, the resist-covered areas will not get eaten away.
Artists use different resists, and with various equipment, you can adopt several styles and methods. For instance, if you use a rubber stamp, you can create photo transfers, drawings, and so on. With enough practice, you will understand which resist using.
WHAT RESISTS USE?
There are different types of resists that work on nickel silver, brass, and copper. If you are making jewelry, then work with duct tape to cover the back of the metal. It will create a border around the sheet. Sharpie markers are also useful for hand-drawn designs. Try to avoid drawing a fine line, otherwise, the main design will be lost.
You can also use medium ink for rubber stamp designs, and blue transfer film for metal and paper designs. Before you start jewelry etching, talk to a professional CHEMICAL ETCHING SUPPLIER and get better tips.