How to mix a Copper Sulphate for a Zinc Plate Aquatint Etch

Welcome to my blog on printmaking and arts business.

I have been experimenting with copper sulphate etch for some time now etching zinc and aluminium in the same bath and I have had some very pleasing results.

I am currently working on a custom plate for artist Tate Adams and require some further testing before I mix up a large copper sulphate bath for etching aquatints.

It is possible due to the way the copper sulphate and zinc react to create an aquatint tone without using a rosin. To get the desired result, testing is necessary.

A fresh solution creates the best results so I will be mixing up two small solution baths to test for the best results.

How to mix a copper sulphate for a zinc plate aquatint etch.

1. Fine line, course aquatint, soft ground: 50 grams of copper sulphate to 1 litre of water (comparable to a nitric acid solution of 7-8%)
2. Fine aquatint: 25 grams of copper sulphate to 1 litre of water (comparable to a nitric acid solution of 4-5%)

The stronger the solution the faster it etches.

The addition of Sodium Bisulfate is necessary when etching zinc and aluminium in the same solution.

Happy printmaking,

Warmly,

Jo Lankester 

P.S How to turn your printmaking hobby into a profitable business www.howtogetstartedinprintmaking.com

P.P.S It's finally here the Worlds Fist Online 1 Day Goal Achievers Workshop 

Etching Plate Zinc 16x20

Polishing Quartz-Zinc for Etching

I recently purchased zinc from a national zinc manufacturer and distributor rather than from a printmaking supply company with the intension to reduce my purchase and freight costs due to my location.

The zinc arrived at half the cost but not quite as I had anticipated. The zinc was not polished and did not have an enamel back coating as requested, (like when purchased from a printmaking supplier). Instead the zinc had a grey textured surface on both sides.

I quickly went to work with steel wool and metal polish and bought the zinc back to a shiny smooth surface. I then applied metal polish with a rag to give it the final smooth polish required for etching.

Materials you will need for polishing zinc:

• Steel wool
• Metal polish
• Rags 

A little elbow grease and determination transformed my disappointment into enthusiasm in no time. I'm now ready to work on my next commission.

Happy printmaking,
Warmly,
Jo Lankester

P.S Get a FREE report of the 7 Secrets to Building a Sustainable Printmaking Business.
www.howtogetstartedinprintmaking.com

P.P.S Review your weekly goals at the beginning of each week. Plan the upcoming week with your goals in mind.

Printmaking Tool Set- Plate Maker Graver Set