First Build: Neophyte's Pride

[Quixotic Jedi]

Looks great for a first time etching. I'm wondering if it wouldn't have made a crisper line if you used a thick adhesive backed vinyl sheet and cut the characters out with a sharp exacto knife?

[Ackocin]

That was actually my thought exactly. The sticker paper I used for the masking wasn't thick enough to act as a resist on it's own. I still would like to do some etching on the piece where I'm mounting my switch, so I'll have a chance to test it. Just have to find the vinyl.

[Quixotic Jedi]

Not 100% sure, but you might try places that sell supplies for custom auto painting. I'm pretty sure I've seen something like that on some custom car or motorcycle building shows where they used it to mask off for air brushing.

[Silver Serpent]

Rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid will work to remove the adhesive residue, without removing the nail polish.

[Ackocin]

Rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid will work to remove the adhesive residue, without removing the nail polish.

That's good to know! I did use alcohol to try and get it off, but I was being weak with it, worried I'd damage the nice lines I had with the polish. Next time I won't be so delicate

[Taki117]

Ironically I actually like the look of the imperfect etching, gives it the feel of being well used and weathered.

[Ackocin]

Ironically I actually like the look of the imperfect etching, gives it the feel of being well used and weathered.

Despite it not being my plan, I've grown to like it, too. Which has made me start weathering it a little further.

Contemplating the spray paint method, but also curious what oven cleaner does to the aluminum (can't find any pics)

[Ackocin]

Last night I finished! Here is the result. Prepare for pictures!

Specs

MHS Parts from TCSS
Nano Biscotte V2
Luxeon Rebel Star (Deep Red)
Li-Ion 18650 3.7V 2600mAh PCB Protected Rechargeable Battery
2.1mm Recharge Port (hidden inside grip)
Premium 28mm Speaker
16mm Anti Vandal Short Momentary Red Ring Switch
Custom Etching by me
Custom Blade Plug by me

Loaded with the Sound Fonts:
"Dark Meat" by Eastern57 and Novastar
"Rogue" by Madcow

(Lego Stormtrooper for scale)



Thank you for looking! Any comments, questions, or suggestions are welcome. I'm gonna need it all as I start to plan my next build.

[Silver Serpent]

Very nice. It's got a well used look to it.

[AckAck]

That is really good looking! I particularly like the blade plug.