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This class will include etching on copper plates using ferric chloride which has been modified with anydrous citric acid. When modified in this way, the etchant is called "Edinburgh Etch".  Edinburgh etch acts twice as fast as straight ferric chloride, and etches lines that are razor-sharp in detail! 

 

This class uses all the non-toxic elements, techniques, and chemistries that are known to me.  Waterbased inks that clean up with soap and water, an etchant that requires no fancy air evacuation system because it does not produce harmful fumes, (as does nitric acid when used with zinc plates). Edinburgh etch is a corrosive, not an acid.  It does not burn the skin--it does, however, turn the skin a bright yellow color!   The Hard etching ground is Future acrylic floor polish (From my local Giant Food grocery store).

We always use nitrile gloves in place of latex, because nitrile is non-allergenic. Latex exposure will eventually lead to contact dermatitus or other skin sensitivity because it is an organic material.

You will learn how to etch in your own house if you so choose!  I do, because I think it is that safe with these techniques.