What type of pen will write permanently on the back of an aluminum metal print.
I want it to be a limited edition and I want to add my name and the edition number.
I don't know how thick these aluminum plates are. You might try an electric engraving pen. better yet, ask the printing company.
steveg48 wrote:
What type of pen will write permanently on the back of an aluminum metal print.
I want it to be a limited edition and I want to add my name and the edition number.
Sharpies will write on almost anything, come in various colors and fine points.
Try an etching pen. I have done this for my metal prints. Home Depot sells them with carbide tips for about $4.
Steve asks "... write permanently on the back of an aluminum metal print" Key word PERMANENTLY.... Felt tips wipe off with alcohol so need to etch.
Me, I would teat them delicately because they are soft and thin NO MECHANICAL TOOLS... using caustic (lye solution**) on a felt tip to sign you name would leave a blackish signature.
see:
http://www.finishing.com/400/35.shtmlthere you will read:
"... You didn't tell us what aluminum alloy you are using, so it's hard for us to name the non-aluminum contaminants that are in it and that turn black. Regardless, the principal is that if you etch aluminum in caustic soda, the aluminum quickly dissolves, leaving the other materials behind (copper, silicon, etc.) These other materials on the surface will cause the surface to look black. ... "
Be careful be reasonable... always have water near by to immerse your parts in if acid or caustic get on them.... vinegar if using caustic, baking soda solution if using acid.
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET finishing.com Pine Beach, New Jersey
** of course don't get on your hands and if you do do not wipe you eyes nor go to bathroom for full bladder... wash first!! Chemists quickly learn to not urinate on their hands and to wash hands before grabbing personals OUCH!!
Here is a technique using Hydrochloric acid (same thing as as muriatic acid)...
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-etch-aluminum-panel-labelsdesigns-with-a-r/
banster
Loc: PA, Ontario, N.C.,Key West
I have signed the "back side" with felt tip with success by VERY lightly sanding the surface where I sign.
Merlin1300
Loc: New England, But Now & Forever SoTX
I agree with the above - - lightly buff the back side with steel wool
Sign with a sharpie and cover with archival clear tape.
If the printed foil is thin, you'll not want to use anything too pointed to sign with as the impression may show through to the front image side
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