Friday, May 13, 2011

Vintage Rose - My first etched copper pendant

I've been wanting to try etching metals for a while, and finally, I did it. I freehand drew a rose on a copper plate with a paint pen, set it with a heat gun, then etched it with an electro-etching system. The pattern didn't come out totally smooth, but I actually quite like it like that - gives it a more "weathered" vintage feel. Added a patina with liver of sulphur and Gilder's paste, and stuck it onto a filigree piece. Teamed it with an oblong stone cabochon, Swarovski crystals, more filigree stampings and beaded components. It was really quite fun to do. When I have time, I want to try etching bronze and copper clay pieces - now that would be so cool! Hope you like, and please click on the photos if you'd like a larger view.