How Do You Etch In Metal Jewelry?
The term “metal etching” describes the metalsmithing process of creating a design in the surface of a piece of sheet metal. This type of design is not carved by hand; rather, it is imprinted by chemically stripping some of the metal material away. The process is similar to screen printing, in that parts of the metal surface must be protected from the chemicals, leaving them untouched in the final design. The simplest material for a beginner to etch is copper, as it is fairly soft and less expensive than other metals. Set up a workspace in a well-ventilated area with protected surfaces. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and safety goggles, and protect your clothing. Create a rough texture on the surface of your copper sheet metal by rubbing a Scotch-Brite pad or steel wool over it. Cover the surface areas you do not want etched with a Sharpie marker. In a design, these would be the raised “positive” parts of the image. Also cover the back of the metal completely with Sharpie marker. Cover
