Custom Photo Etch

Anyone here ever done their own photo etch? I am interested in knowing the mechanics of how to do it, what equipment is required, and what is needed for artwork.

I may need to do some for the Sterling race truck! Thanks.

Here's an article that explains it.

these articles

cheap photoetching

Now, That is interesting. I used to use ( still have some) that Radio Shack acid back in the RR days. I used it to weather corrugated aluminum siding. Might just have to give it a go !

Thanks for the informative articles Don. I think I am going to have to give this a try. I need a "STERLING" logo to go on the lower grille that consists of just the letters in a special font. From all of the reference materials I have, It includes some artwork that can be used.

I see that Micromark has a kit that includes the equipment and supplies needed. I have used their stuff before, so I am going to purchase this. I know that it is the expensive way to go, but you get everything you need in one shot. You then have all of the supplies to go on to make more stuff.

I bought a similar kit from Caswell for the cobalt nickel plating. I also need to do this for some brass parts on the race truck.

As a side note, using these types of processes on the making of the model parts, does get you extra points on the judging at the GSL show. Plus, I like learning new things!!

I am very interested in how this goes. Please keep us in the loop.

Likewise Pete. I'm really interested in seeing how this goes.

I spent the morning exploring this idea.



I  drew some designs on a piece of cleaned soda can aluminum. A license plate frame for a practice attempt and a grill that was intended for the track nose I made from two 40 ford fender parts.
My first mixture was too 'hot' and the license frame disappeared in about a minute.  I quickly set up a new unimportant test piece and diluted the acid  about half again,
It took a long time, but delicate points ate away before the rest  was even thru.  

I then added some additional acid And figured it might be safe to try the grill piece.
The center of the grill bars ate away before the outer parts did. So I was ready for lunch !
I guess the soda can material is pretty 'iffy'. If I can get a thin piece of brass, I may give it another go.

Thanks for the progress report.

I ordered the Micromark kit. It will be at the house when I get back from San Diego on Sat evening!