If you Google Acid Etching on Metal, you will find a wide variety of articles, many very helpful. That’s how I got started. I experimented with many methods before I found one that worked consistently for me. Read More

Ferric Chloride is not a dangerous acid, like Nitric acid or Hydrochloric acid. All it does is make metal rust. You can safely neutralize it with baking soda and pour it down the drain, or in the ground. But it does leave dark stains on your hands if you touch it, so use rubber gloves when working with it. And of course, keep children and pets out of the area at all times.

Ferric Chloride is used by copper circuit board designers. Radio Shack used to carry Ferric Chloride in pints. But they no longer carry it in Tucson, AZ. I buy it, by the gallon, from a chemical supplier here in Tucson.

Note:  If you order it from an out-of-state supplier, they will add substantial HAZMAT shipping charges, so it is best to find a local chemical supplier. Many electronic specialty stores carry Ferric Chloride. I have purchased it in crystal form, which works fine too, but I can’t remember the ratio of crystals to water.  If you buy it in crystal form, ask your supplier what quantity to mix with water to make a solution that will etch brass or copper quickly.   Read More