Did I Mess Up?

[bobbywett]

Hi Guys,

I just replaced my acid enchant solution....but I think I might have messed up the mixture by using distilled water instead of spring water. I mixed 1 part Radio Shack PBC to 4 parts distilled water. Did I add the wrong water? Is their a better mixture someone might share with me.

Thanks,

Bob

 

[argel55]

Distilled is better than the spring water.

 

[Mark Knapp]

I always do 50/50 with distilled

 

[A C Richards]

Should not be a problem. I normally use distilled also. Try an etch and if it is too slow add a bit more FC. If too fast them more water.

 

[Danbo]

No, it sounds like you did it perfectly. You want a very diluted solution. Too strong, and it tends to etch everything at the same rate(not what you want). The experts I've talked to(and, have since proven to be correct) told me to use a very diluted solution of warm/hot distilled water/ferric chloride, etch for awhile, take it out and rub it down with either paper towels or super fine steel wool, and repeat as many times as necessary, until you can actually feel the pattern in the steel. Afterwards, neutralize with baking soda, ammonia windex, etc... and then lightly rub down with 2000 grit paper to bring out the layers. Damascus; ya gotta love it! :thumbup:

 

[bobbywett]

Thanks Everyone....glad too hear I chose the right water.