[guitardave_1]

I wasn't sure of the best place for this post but hopefully I'll get an answer here.

I was just hoping someone could explain to me what photo etching is and how it works/is done. I don't ever do any customising of my models, I simply want to improve my knowledge, and every time photo etching gets mentioned somewhere I think to myself I must find out what it actually is.

So :feedback

 

[Ducati-900SS]

I was going to try to explain what little I knew about the process, but Google came to my rescue!!!

Photo Etching

Working With Photo Etched Parts

Do It Yourself Photo Etching

Looks interesting! Might try this after I try resin casting!!!

:cheers
Sean

 

[guitardave_1]

Thanks Sean. I think I got the idea of it now. I'm not one for modifying or actually trying these things out but these made an interesting read purely from a curiosity point of view.

 

[Guest]

Does cutting parts by hand result in a clean finished product or would some sort of machine be required.

 

[Ducati-900SS]

One of the problems with working with such thin or small items is that the tools you would normally use could actually destroy the piece you are trying to create. For example, when using tin shears, it bends the cut edge slightly up or down. Using a drill, the bits have a tendency to grab the surounding area and can pull and rip super thin metal in ways or areas that you didn't intend. I've make small cusom parts for plastic kits out of styrene and now after reading the how to - it definately seems like the way to go!!!

It actually sounds easier than cutting, drilling or shaping. All you do is draw your design (which you do anyways) and then dunk it for 10 minutes.

:cheers
Sean