How to Make Etchings
- 1). Create your own stencil with a piece of adhesive vinyl. Trace your design on the vinyl and use a single-blade craft knife to cut it out. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-made stencil at a craft store.
- 2). Remove the backing of the vinyl stencil and smooth it onto the item you are etching. Try to smooth out all the air bubbles.
- 3). Brush etching cream onto the negative spaces in the stencil with a small paint brush. Following the manufacturer's instructions, leave the cream on these surfaces so the chemicals can do their work. This usually takes anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour.
- 4). Wash off the etching cream with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Remove the vinyl stencil and wash the item one more time to remove all residue of the cream. Allow the item to air dry, or dry it with a cloth.
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