[sdiy] transfer for panels, was very basic pcb

[David G. Dixon]

I've been thinking that I want to develop an oblique strategy for making
aluminum synth panels which doesn't involve either a) any sort of decal, or
b) any professional etching or engraving services.  I've been thinking of
trying to do my own anodizing using a photoresist.  However, after reading
Jerry's latest (see below), now I'm thinking that perhaps this photo-paper
laserjet toner transfer might be just the ticket.  I'm loathe to use
expensive PnP blue to mask panels.

Alternatively, just ironing the laserjet toner directly onto the panel and
then lacquering could be far superior to the PulsarProFX thing I've been
doing (which is a major hassle, leaves adhesive residue on the aluminum, and
gives fairly ordinary results).  Hmmmm....

> Keep in mind that you have to soak this paper to peel it off, I get the
> first layer off and use a wash cloth to lightly scrub the rest of the
> paper
> off.
> You do not have to get down to pure toner, just to clear copper where you
> etch. It is OK for a ground plane to have a white-ish look. The small
> detail
> can be cleared with a bit of light tooth brush action. I do all the paper
> clean off wet. With a good transfer the toner has a Very good bond to the
> copper, its not fragile but it is just a thin layer of plastic. If you
> have
> some missing toner minor touch ups can be done with a Sharpe Permanent
> Marker. The Sharpe ink is a good resist but a little inferior to the
> Toner.