Barry and I spent a few hours on the weekend etching aluminium. Testing this and that and getting ready for some big projects. One of the things about etching aluminium with copper sulphate solution is the remarkable accumulation of "gunk" (technical term) that appears on the surface of the plate as you etch.
It can induce fear into the hearts of those etching - what on earth have I done? Is that right? That looks pretty intense - should I take it out?
Despite knowing it's going to happen, it still amazes me each and every time.
Of course when there are two of you doing it, one can take photos! Thanks to Barry for capturing these fear-inducing moments.
After a second dip in the solution.
And after all that drama...
Whilst Barry was etching, I took photos of my rust pile as we were working on the bench next to the ladder that holds all my rusty bits. I had been taking the beauty of the rusty bits a bit for granted, so it was nice to get up close and personal with them again and see just how gorgeous they really are. Only the iPhone with me as it was also the timer, but they still make me smile.
It can induce fear into the hearts of those etching - what on earth have I done? Is that right? That looks pretty intense - should I take it out?
Despite knowing it's going to happen, it still amazes me each and every time.
Of course when there are two of you doing it, one can take photos! Thanks to Barry for capturing these fear-inducing moments.
And after all that drama...
Whilst Barry was etching, I took photos of my rust pile as we were working on the bench next to the ladder that holds all my rusty bits. I had been taking the beauty of the rusty bits a bit for granted, so it was nice to get up close and personal with them again and see just how gorgeous they really are. Only the iPhone with me as it was also the timer, but they still make me smile.
Look at all that rusty goodness. I'm salivating over here.
ReplyDeletemmmmm.rust.mmmmmm!
DeleteRust laced with cobwebs no less ... magical!
DeleteIndeed Liz - a wonderful combination!
DeleteFiona, your rust makes my heart sing! As for your etching, what fun and what a beautiful end result.
ReplyDeleteThe rust is good for the soul isn't it Carol? Such lovely, lovely stuff. Go well.
DeleteF - sure looked grungy - good that I had an experienced etcher supervising my efforts - thanks. B
ReplyDeleteWe did well together!
Deletei hope your fingers are whole and healthy-it looks so possible to get some on them and then, well, than what? i do like how the words are.
ReplyDeleteOh yes Velma, it's non-toxic despite how it looks; but I always wear gloves or else the copper sulphate stains your fingers blue-green. It is a good easy way to work on metal. Go well.
DeleteWhat a fascinating process...and I love how your rust pile images capture such a delicious bunch of patterns & rustiness!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lisa, each and every time the process scares the pants off me; and then I breathe in and go with it and it all works out fine! I love the rusty shapes and images and it was wonderful to spend time with them again - how weird does that sound?!?! Go well.
DeleteBeautiful photos Barry.
ReplyDeleteIndeed Jack! He is a more than able assistant, for sure.
Delete