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Intaglio (Copper) Etching

Tools & Prep for Printing

1 File all 4 edges of copper plate to


create 45-degree bevel

Sand top surface of plate with 220,


400, 1000 grit sandpaper

2 Wash copper plate with degreasing


powder and completely dry plate

Tape back of plate with acid-resistant


tape to make flaps as handles

Label with your name

3 Coat copper plate with hard ground


to make an opaque layer and remove
all bubbles with a paintbrush

Let dry in open air for 24 hours

4 Transfer image onto plate with


graphite paper and a ball-point pen,
remember to reverse text

Remove transfer paper so the image


will show up as a graphite version of
the drawing

5 Identify which tool you will use:


twisted double-ended needle or a
wood handled needle (they have
different type widths for detail)

6 Draw image onto plate using fine


lines, cross-hatching, and hatching

Copper should be exposed in order


to etch effectively

7 Adhere long piece of tape to back


of plate and insert into acid
vertical tank for 60 minutes

Remove with rubber gloves and


wash plate immediately with water to
rinse away all remaining acid

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