Etching is a way to add a design and texture to the surface of your metal. Etching patterns relies on acid etched onto the surface of the metal. Designing an etching pattern is more difficult than it seems, but with these instructions and helpful tips you can create any type of design you imagine.
On this guide we will be covering how to tell if your metal is ready for etching and how to create the most common types of etched designs.
Proper Etching Metal
Metal that has been oxidized will work for etching. If you want to create your own patina on your metal, the first step is to properly prepare the surface by oxidizing the metal. For more detailed instructions on this process visit our patination guide here. The surface should have a uniform dark brown color, no spots where the metal is not oxidized should be visible.
Materials Needed
You will need the following tools and supplies to start etching:
• Acid- NITRIC ACID is the best acid to use for etching. Do not use muriatic acid. This will release toxic fumes and is extremely corrosive!
• Alum Block- this is the best way to neutralize any acid that may accidentally splash onto your skin or clothing. Alum blocks are cheap and easily found at your local hardware store.
• Painter’s Tape- This will be used to hold your metal to the surface while etching.
• Acetone or nail polish remover- this will be used to clean and degrease the surface of the metal.
• Vinyl Gloves- this will protect your hands from any acid that splashes onto them.
NITRIC ACID
This is the strongest acid you can use on metal. You must take all precautions when using this acid! Nitric acid is corrosive and toxic, it will eat away at any metal that it touches! Try to avoid skin contact with this acid because it burns your skin and it may cause permanent damage if proper care is not taken.
• Wear vinyl gloves and safety goggles when handling this acid.
• Aim a fan in the direction where any splashes may go so that it can be blown away from you and onto the ground.
• If you spill this acid, neutralize any acid that splatters by pouring an ample amount of alum on top of it. Then cover the area with aluminum foil to absorb any fumes that may come from it. After it has been neutralized, wash the area with water and thoroughly clean the entire area with acetone or nail polish remover.
• Never pour this acid into another container if it is not full. Instead, pour this acid into a separate container and then discard the other empty one.
• Always try to keep your containers of this acid in a safe place away from your work space.
ALUM BLOCK
This will act as a way to neutralize any acid that may have splashed on you or your workspace. It should be stored closer to your workspace than the acid so that you can easily grab it if needed.
PAINTER’S TAPE
This will be used to secure your metal onto the surface you are etching on. This will ensure that even if any acid splashes onto it, your metal will not move and allow for a clean design to be made.
HARDWARE AND SUPPLIES NEEDED
To make a design, you will need the following supplies:
• A pattern- this could be a drawing that is to be etched or a stencil. To make stencils read our guide here.
• Something to draw on- this can be paper, cardboard, or plastic.
• Extra Pins or tweezers to hold the design while etching.
• Putty Knife- this is a knife used to loosen and smooth out any raised edges. It will also be used to make details in your design when necessary.
Etching Pattern
The first step is to set up your work space with the appropriate supplies and tools.