Should I acid etch these Leeks?

S

strick284

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Apr 10, 2010
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I bought a bunch of Leek blems in an auction on ebay, intending to give some away and sell some. I have given away all I want to, and I now have seven left. So here's my question: If I was to do some patterned acid etching on the handles (and possibly the blades) to give them a more unique look, would this increase or decrease the value of them? They are just the plain stainless framelocks, some serrated, some not. Here's a stock photo, as if you don't already know what it looks like :p.

kershaw-leek.gif


I think it would be a fun project, but I'm not going to bother with it if they'll sell for less after I do it. So what do you think? Would you pay more for a customized acid etched knife, or shy away from it?
 
being that theyre blems I say go for it, Leeks are cheap enough as it is, the price decrease would probably be inconsequential.
 
The knives are inexpensive as it is, i doubt the vlaue would go up much if you were to etch them.
 
They're blems, so there's limited value to begin with. A blem is basically a new used knife that just hasn't been used yet. If you want to experiment with acid etching, a blem is a good choice. However, if you expect the value to increase, then you're mistaken unless you're an established artist/craftsman whose work is in demand. In which case, you should use unblemished, new knives, or ones that the customer has supplied to you.
 
If it is something you intend to do eventually to make money, then they would be good candidates to practice on and if any turn out nice I would say use them as portfolio pieces. You may also consider giving them away to market yourself if you intend to build a following.
 
Considering a Leek Blem sells new for around $25, the value isn't likely to go down much if at all.
But, it will not go up. If you want to experiment, these are the knives to do it on.
I say do it and have fun.
I bet if you wanted you could trade them off for something you want. Because someone would see a group of unique acid etched Kershaw Leek's and probably want them to gift to people.

Do it, have fun, and sell or trade them. I'd keep one for myself though. =]
 
I want to see some cool looken acid etched leeks so I say DO IT! If they were really B.A. I think they would be worth a few more $'s.
 
I think the learning experience is well worth the effort. Who knows, you might come up with something that increases the value.
 
Be careful with the blade acid does remove a bit of material. And the leek has a thin blade to begin with.
 
Lol no master craftsman here, just a college student screwin around in his garage. But you've convinced me, I'm gonna try it. I've seen both ferric chloride and a mix of vinegar/PCB etchant solution used for etching before. I'll see if I can find something at an electronics store around here. I don't suppose they sell that sort of stuff at Walmart? Anyway it'll be a few days, but I'll try to post some pics as soon as I get my first one done. Thanks guys!
 
strick284 said:
Lol no master craftsman here, just a college student screwin around in his garage. But you've convinced me, I'm gonna try it. I've seen both ferric chloride and a mix of vinegar/PCB etchant solution used for etching before. I'll see if I can find something at an electronics store around here. I don't suppose they sell that sort of stuff at Walmart? Anyway it'll be a few days, but I'll try to post some pics as soon as I get my first one done. Thanks guys!
Click to expand...

Radio Shack should have PCB etchant.
 
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