Recommendation? Damascus etching items and process?

[David Mary]

I have a handful of Damascus blades to grind and etch. The closest I've ever gotten is forcing patinas with vinegar and instant coffee, and these without extraordinary results. Just wondering if someone could share an effective but basic set up that can be done in the garage, including (if you'll indulge me) what products and process you'd use in such circumstances?

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

The normal etch used by knifemakers is ferric chloride. If you use the google search engine in the stickys you will find many articles on mixing it and using it. Most of us use it diluted 3"1 from the stock strength.
White vinegar will work but is much slower and does not get the same darkness or depth of etch.

 

[Richard338]

You should watch some Kyle Royer YouTube videos on this. Sand to a nice 1500 grit before starting. Dip a few minutes (5-8) in 3:1 FC then rinse and lightly sand the oxides using a higher grit, say 2000, and a firm backing. You need to repeat 4 or 5 times. Don't get impatient and go too long on a single soak. When finished you can neutralize in baking soda or Windex, then lightly oil and leave overnight. Royer often does the instant coffee after the FC.

 

[000Robert]

You should watch some Kyle Royer YouTube videos on this. Sand to a nice 1500 grit before starting. Dip a few minutes (5-8) in 3:1 FC then rinse and lightly sand the oxides using a higher grit, say 2000, and a firm backing. You need to repeat 4 or 5 times. Don't get impatient and go too long on a single soak. When finished you can neutralize in baking soda or Windex, then lightly oil and leave overnight. Royer often does the instant coffee after the FC.

Don't you have to make sure and clean it real good before you start dipping it?