I started experimenting with metal etching as part of my guitar pedal building, and have tried various methods such as ferric chloride, sodium hydroxide, and electrolytic etching, with all sorts of resists, from beeswax to nail polish. Getting a good resist that was easy to work with was a real challenge, until I landed on vinyl tape, the type scrapbookers use. There are all sorts of tools available to cut it, allowing me to hand draw designs, and cut them easily onto the vinyl. The results were great, with fine detail, sharp lines, and a deep etch.
When I returned to the craft store for more vinyl, I happened down an aisle randomly, which happened to have a collection of aluminum jewelry blanks – bracelets and rings and necklace charms. Most were small, but they had 5/8” wide bracelet blanks that looked big enough to work with, and some dog tag charms. I took them home and drew out a simple design of guitars and flowers, and cut it out of vinyl, laid it on the bracelets and etched it with ferric chloride. I was really surprised at the results, that this simple liquid had so much power to dissolve the metal, but keep the resist intact. Etching for pedals is the last step in the pedal design, it’s not something I get to do a lot of. So making jewelry is a great addition, letting me test out different techniques — and now I’m trying different metals, starting with copper. I’ve finished 6 pendant charms etched with an image of Ganesha, which I’ve corded with soft waxed cotton and antique copper finishings. I’ve also bought some copper bracelet blanks, which are my next project.
I’ve been selling these at shows, and they’ve been popular! It feels nice to know someone took home my art.