How to Cut Etching Plates
- 1). Measure the plate to be cut and mark the dimensions on the metal with a straight edge and permanent marker.
- 2). Place the plate face up on a table edge and cover the part not being cut away with a soft cloth to protect the metal's surface.
- 3). Clamp the plate to the table with two C-Clamps. If none are available, hold the plate very steady.
- 4). Cut the drawn line very carefully with the draw knife. The object is to start slow and increase pressure as you create a gouge in the metal. Continue to score the metal until you cut through to the approximate center of the plate.
- 5). Release the clamps and turn the plate to the edge of the table. Slowly bend the cut pieces up and down until they break.
- 6). File the edges and clean the surface of the plate.