Non-toxic Etching

Non-toxic EtchingWhat is meant by 'Non-toxic' Etching?

Traditionally, etching is a hazardous procedure, requiring the use of acids and resists which are harmful by inhalation, ingestion, or through the skin. These toxic materials can affect the skin, eyes, teeth and their amalgam fillings, mucous membranes, lungs, and may cause impotency.What one doesn't inhale will pollute the environment.

handPRINT studio is pleased to offer a new process of etching zinc and aluminium whereby there is no production of harmful vapours (the only vapour generated is a negligible amount of hydrogen gas), and the etching process is as rapid and efficient as that available through the use of traditional, dangerous nitric acid and ferric chloride solutions. In addition, as well as traditional resists and grounds, our etching process offers a range of extra procedures which are safe and versatile. The process requires no specialised ventilation systems or fume cupboards, and can be quite easily and safely carried out at home.

In addition, disposal of spent etching bath is both safe and environmentally friendly.

What does the course entail?

Over the two-day workshop, the following areas will be investigated:- Principles of etching; materials and equipment; formulae for mixing etching baths; health and safety; waste disposal; creative methods of applying resists; line-etching, soft-ground, open-bite, deep-etch; aquatint; sugar-lift; intaglio inking; intaglio/relief inking; viscosity inking; print finishing and editioning; suppliers.