Hi all,
I am new to this forum but have been working in metal since 1972. . .so here goes.

I am designing a series of sterling pieces. In the past I have etched with an 8 to one ratio of nitric acid and water. The handling of the etchant and the fumes are horrendous. I have been looking for an alternative using a plating rectifier in reverse which would strip metal away instead of depositing it on the model. Does that make sense?

I am having a hard time finding an inexpensive adjustable power source and before I buy one, I would like some feedback from you experts. The cost of the rectifier is $450 so I am hesitant to buy it since I have never plated or electroformed anything (but to justify the expenditure, I will experiment . . . I am human although many question this assertion. Anybody out there ever tried this.

Is the crystalline matrix left behind similar to an acid etched method? Is the time involved similar? Anyone have a photoemulsion favorite or source? I have been told a battery charger would work, but I would prefer having the ability to adjust the voltage and amperage.

I am excited to get to know you all. I felt like I had found a directory to my friends from art school. I am hoping the above makes sense. Please ask any questions you wish to clarify my question or to the process I use. Many thanx in advance!
TomLaudnum501