How to Make a Tape for Etching Metal
Datetime:2013-10-12 Hits:
Etching metal for small jewelry or sculpture creates the outline for a cutout design or a pattern on the surface of the metal. Either process is easily done using an ink jet printer along with a special paper called image transfer film. This particular film is designed to accept the black ink from an ink jet printer and creates a resist for the acid etching. Either a hand drawn or computer generated design works to create the etching tape.
Instructions
1
Place the Press-n-Peel image transfer film in the paper carriage of the printer. Make sure to turn the paper the appropriate direction for printing on your particular printer.
2
Select the highest grade print quality in your selected computer program and select print.
3
Place a cast iron skillet on the stove. Turn on the burner. Place the metal sheet in the cast iron skillet. Heat the metal until it is 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
4
Center the transfer film on the metal. Wrap your finger with a clean cloth to protect it from the heat. Rub the surface of the transfer film to transfer the etching design to the metal.
5
Remove the metal from the cast iron skillet when the image appears dark. Carefully peel the image transfer film from the surface of the metal.