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How to Use an Etching Press

Etching presses are used to imprint an image onto paper from a specific surface such as a metal plate, a linocut or a woodcut. To use your etching press, it will first need to be put together if it is not already assembled. Once this is done, you can then begin the process of printing onto paper. However, you will require the proper tools and materials to use the etching press.

Things You'll Need

Nut driver
Wrench
Spindles
Handle
Screws
Screwdriver
Copper or zinc plate
Ink
Etching paper
0.3mm thick blanket

Instructions

Etching Press Assembly
- 1
  Remove the hex bolts located on the top of the frame with the nut driver or a wrench. Set the bolts aside. Insert a spindle where the hex bolts were located.
- 2
  Place the handle onto the shaft that is on the side of the etching press. Secure the handle with screws by using the screwdriver.
- 3
  Remove the temporary feet that are located under the etching press.
- 4
  Locate the two screws that are used to secure the safety wire to the underside of the press. Remove the screws with the screwdriver.
Printing with the Press
- 5
  Place an etched copper or zinc plate on the bed of the etching press. Apply the ink to use onto the plate.
- 6
  Position the etching paper on top of the copper or zinc plate. Set a 0.3mm thick blanket on over the top of the etching paper.
- 7
  Turn the handle to move the press bed. The rollers force the etching on the copper or zinc plate onto the etching paper.

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