Etching Show and Tell!

New Work, New Techniques!

I've gotten into etching and won't ever come back. It's an addiction for which I've fallen hard, and I can't believe I've waited so long to try the technique.

I think I was intimidated by the chemicals, but there are two types you can use to get a good etch.

I use the lesser of the two evils--ferric nitrate--and a little smidge of citric acid to give the brew a good bite. And it's really not bad at all!

This last round I fell asleep while the pendants were etching, and I didn't wake up until the morning! I figured I've have nothing but metal shavings. But I had glorious pendants that I was really happy with.

This pendant on the left is actually reversible! I etched the piece on the front with an exotic flower pattern that reminds me of India. A labradorite stone sits in a handmade bezel in the middle.

Flip the pendant over, and there's a delicate little lotus leaf stamped in its center, so you have two looks for the price of one. Forget Target's new slogan, when it comes to jewelry This is a Brand New Day!!! :-)

I also love the mandala motif that is represented in the top necklace and this bracelet. I started making bracelets again after a reprieve, and most of them in my site are etched pieces. I hope they do well!

These are just a few of the designs I have posted on my site, so here's a sneak peek! I'll be adding more etched pieces in the coming days...

I can't decide which is my favorite, so maybe some of my followers can give me some feedback.

I'd love to hear from my customers about which styles and shapes they like best, as I'll be adding new etched pieces in the coming season, including a whole line of necklaces that are reversible.