[Jewelry making - Article 00861] - [Orchid] Inconsistent Etching Results

[Linda Castellani]

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Hi Folks -

    I've been etching silver for the last few months using Nitric Acid
    diluted with water, three parts water to one part Nitric Acid. 

    I've used the same solution four or five times. The last time I used
    it, I got the best, most deeply-etched results. This time I put the
    silver in the solution and saw very few bubbles. I stopped the
    process using baking soda in a separate container, and tried again
    the next day. The second day I saw a lot more bubbles, but with the
    exception of one side of one piece, did not get a deep etch at all. 

    The difference between the two days was that the first day I used it
    outside as I usually do, but instead of doing it in the afternoon, I
    had to do it in the morning which was cloudy and cool. The second
    day was in the afternoon, which was warmer and sunnier, which are
    the conditions under which I've been accustomed to using it. 

    So, my questions aRe: is my solution simply spent? Does the
    temperature make a difference? Can spent solution be revived or
    should I buy more Nitric Acid and make new solution? 

    And last, about PNP Blue: I've finally figured out the right setting
    on the iron and the right length of time to iron it on so that the
    resist stays on and doesn't get lifted off by the acid, but I have
    been having a helluva time getting it off after etching. After much
    experimentation, it seems that nail polish remover and a cotton
    ball, changed frequently work the best, but it's not easy and my
    arms and hands get very tired. 

    Does anyone have a better suggestion? 

Thanks,
Linda

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