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Tips, Techniques, and Questions -- Technical questions or tips |
2018-06-02, 5:11am
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Member
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Join Date: Dec 28, 2015
Posts: 42
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Etching
I just love the organic appearance of mat beads. Do most of you use chemical etching cream or a tumbler with silicon carbide grit? Is there any benefit of one over the other and does either on have any impact on the longevity of the bead?
Appreciate your input
June
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2018-06-02, 7:36am
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Senior Member
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Join Date: Aug 31, 2006
Location: Knoxville, TN
Posts: 2,214
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I've used both. I like the tumbler better since I avoid the chemicals. There are times when the etchant works better though.
Tumbler:
Pros - chemical free, nice satin finish.
Cons - won't etch into the depths of a texture, like a ribbed bead. Slower than etchant
Etching cream or liquid:
Pros - fast, easy to etch the entire surface no matter the texture
Cons - harsh, potentially dangerous chemicals, disposal consideration.
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Kathy
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2018-06-02, 8:47pm
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Member
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Join Date: Sep 11, 2016
Location: Vancouver WA
Posts: 70
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I agree with Kathy. I prefer tumble etching, but sometimes it's not the best choice. If you beads have bumps, tumbling doesn't get into the crevices. I have also had problems tumble etching 90 coe. Depending on the bead hole size, sometimes the media gets stuck like glue in the hole when tumbling. I like the more satin finish I get with tumbling. Hope that helps.
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2018-06-03, 6:38am
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Senior Member
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Join Date: Aug 31, 2006
Location: Knoxville, TN
Posts: 2,214
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Put a pipe cleaner in the hole to keep medium from sliding in.
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Kathy
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2018-06-03, 3:36pm
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Member
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Join Date: Sep 11, 2016
Location: Vancouver WA
Posts: 70
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Great Idea. Thanks!!!
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