"WHAT IS ETCHING?"

The term Etching is often confused with the term " Engraving". They are two totally different processes.

In simple terms - Etching is the reproduction of information by an acid process onto flat metal from photographic film.
- Engraving is the reproduction of information via diamond point inscription on to a metal base.

Materials Used: Brass, Stainless Steel, Anodised & Raw Aluminium, and Copper are the main materials used. However, other materials may be suitable.

When Used: - Repetitious work: High volume situations are perfectly catered for by Etching. These may include I.D PLATES, NAME PLATES, and TAGS.

- Commercial situations: Mimic Panels, Machinery Tags, Numerous Name Plates and Labelling situations are perfectly catered for by etching.

- New Buildings: Etching techniques are a great method for identifying & labelling new buildings. These may include Hospitals, Commercial establishments, Shopping Centres, Schools & Public Areas, for General Signage, or for Directories.

- Complex Information: Reproduction of DOT Images, Complex Images & Layouts, Directory Plans and Layouts are all viable via the Etching process

- Photographs: Any photograph can be Etched onto a flat metal plate.

Here are some other points that should be recognised about the process of Etching:

	Black & white lettering is used.
	Etching only recognises black & white.
	Etching is untoned.
	The Etching process is acid etched then black/colour filled.
	The Etching process requires colour separation.
	1999 travelshop.com.au (etched plate on display)