How to Electroform a Leaf

Electroform Station Setup

• 1

  Connect alligator clips with 18-gauge lead wires to your DC power supply. A good power supply should produce less than 15 volts and 3 amps of electricity.

• 2

  Create your electrolyte solution for dissolving the copper and conducting the electroform process. Add 2 pounds of copper sulfate crystals to two-thirds gallons of water. Shake or stir the mixture then add two-thirds cups of sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid concentrate should be at least 90 percent acid.

• 3

  Place the solution into a sturdy plastic tub or acid-proof metal container.

• 4

  Clip a large piece of copper plate or copper tubing along the sides of the container in the solution to function as your anode which will transfer to your leaf. Connect the positive lead wire to the copper anode with an alligator clip.

Electroforming the Leaf

• 5

  Paint the leaf thoroughly with conductive tinning paint. Make sure the surface is fully covered as the copper will adhere to the paint. Choose a sturdy leaf that will not break when painted.

• 6

  Connect an alligator clip from the negative lead wires to the leaf and dip it into the solution. Do not turn on the power supply yet. Make sure leaf is fully submerged.

• 7

  Turn on the DC power supply. You should see high voltage and amperage on your power supply meter as the circuit is completed. The copper will start to adhere to the conductive paint.

• 8

  Remove the leaf after several minutes to see tiny bits of copper sticking to it. Depending on the mixture you use and your power supply, it may take an hour or more to fully electroform the leaf.