Is electro-etching safe for the metal?

Yes. We use safer salts and sulfates instead of harsh acids. This process is gentle on the metal's structural integrity while avoiding the toxic fumes associated with traditional acid baths.

Can I do electro-etching at home safely?

While safer than acid etching, DIY electro-etching involves electricity and chemical byproducts that require proper ventilation and disposal. At Ateljé Vagabond, we use a controlled industrial process to ensure safety and consistent, deep results without pitting.

How deep and durable is the etching?

We can achieve significant depth—often 0.3mm to 0.5mm or more. Because the design is etched into the metal rather than printed on it, the texture is permanent and will withstand daily wear, making it perfect for EDC items like knives.

Can you etch logos or specific fonts?

Absolutely. Electro-etching is ideal for transferring precise digital designs, logos, or specific typography onto metal surfaces with high fidelity, creating a sharp contrast against the raw metal background.

Can it be combined with engraving?

Yes. Electro-etched backgrounds with engraved highlights create striking contrast.

Is electro-etching more expensive than engraving?

It depends on the design coverage. Electro-etching is excellent for large surface textures. Costs vary based on masking complexity and post-processing needs, such as adding contrasting plating or inlays. We provide custom quotes for every project.

Electro-Etching on Metal

Electric etching for deep Nordic metal textures, guided by design, engraving, and electronics.

Electric current and balanced electrolytes carve depth without harsh acids.

We let digital layouts, metalwork, and circuitry inform each other.

Each plate is a crossing from pixel to metal, from concept to tactile relief.

Chemistry, engraving tradition, and code converge so every surface holds weight, memory, and story.

What is Electro-Etching?

Electro-etching uses electricity and safe electrolytes to carve metal without harsh acids. By controlling voltage and time we dissolve metal microscopically, creating deep, organic textures, smooth gradients, and bold reliefs. It is cleaner, safer, and highly controllable compared to traditional acid etching.

The Science & Art Process

Design & Concept
A bespoke concept tailored to the texture, contrast, and story you want from electro-etching.
Masking
Protecting the areas that must stay pristine.
Electrolyte Bath
Submerging the metal in a non-toxic solution with a cathode plate.
Electrolysis
Applying DC power so metal ions leave the exposed surface and create depth.
Reveal
Removing resist to show contrast between untouched metal and textured depth.

When to Choose Electro-Etching

You want organic, flowing textures (not crisp lines)
Large surface areas need depth and character
You're creating art pieces where shadow and light interact
You need damascus-like patterns on stainless steel
Your design has gradients or photographic elements

Real-World Examples

Textured backgrounds on chef knives (beauty meets function)
Architectural panels with landscape-inspired relief
Logos with depth on aluminum laptop cases
Organic patterns on titanium jewelry
Damascus-effect on stainless blades (without forge welding)

Want a quote?

Send us:

Photo of the item (or material specs)
Sketch/reference of desired design
Intended use (daily carry, display, outdoor, etc.)

We typically respond within 48 hours with either:

A detailed quote
Questions to refine the scope

Start a project

Materials We Work With

Aluminum

Stainless steel

Brass

Copper

Titanium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electro-etching safe for the metal?

Yes. We use safer salts and sulfates instead of harsh acids. This process is gentle on the metal's structural integrity while avoiding the toxic fumes associated with traditional acid baths.
Can I do electro-etching at home safely?

While safer than acid etching, DIY electro-etching involves electricity and chemical byproducts that require proper ventilation and disposal. At Ateljé Vagabond, we use a controlled industrial process to ensure safety and consistent, deep results without pitting.
How deep and durable is the etching?

We can achieve significant depth—often 0.3mm to 0.5mm or more. Because the design is etched into the metal rather than printed on it, the texture is permanent and will withstand daily wear, making it perfect for EDC items like knives.
Can you etch logos or specific fonts?

Absolutely. Electro-etching is ideal for transferring precise digital designs, logos, or specific typography onto metal surfaces with high fidelity, creating a sharp contrast against the raw metal background.
Can it be combined with engraving?

Yes. Electro-etched backgrounds with engraved highlights create striking contrast.
Is electro-etching more expensive than engraving?

It depends on the design coverage. Electro-etching is excellent for large surface textures. Costs vary based on masking complexity and post-processing needs, such as adding contrasting plating or inlays. We provide custom quotes for every project.