Homebrew PCBs

Dave,
I got my start in PCBs before I found this group.  What worked for me
was a commercial "plastic paper", Press-n-Peel Blue.  It costs about
$10 for a package of five 8 1/2 x 11 inch sheets, plus shipping.  One
of the suppliers is Electronix Express.

I would print out my board (reverse image) with my inkjet onto regular
paper, and take it and the P-n-P Blue to the library for photocopying.
 The plastic "ink" from the photocopier fused onto the dull side of
the P n P Blue.  Then, I ironed it onto the prepared PCB.

I achieved generally good and consistent results.  $2-plus a sheet,
however is kind of expensive, and I bought a laser printer to avoid
the trips to the library.  I have yet to make an equivalent quality
board using my Brother 2040 and the P-n-P, so I'm trying alternatives,
and learning a lot in the process.  The manufacture, Techniks, told me
that "the new laser printers have higher toner temperatures" and that
I needed a hotter iron. Apparently, I need one fired with MAPP gas, then!

So, bottom line, the P-n-P Blue and photocopier is a reasonable way to
start, with minimum frustration.  What you learn doing it that way at
first will certainly apply to the more creative ways later on.

Regards,
Ted

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, David Frascone <dave@...> wrote:
>
> 
> Ok, -- I want to try to make some PCB's, but I'm getting a little lost 
> with all the information.  Here's what I have:
> 
> HP Laserjet 4MP (with after market (non HP) toner)
> Generic Glossy Photo paper for Inkjet printers . .
> 
> Should I even start with these?  What's the cheapest way to get 
> started?  Go to staples and buy their (Staples Brand) paper and do the 
> paper soak away?
> 
> Please let me know!
> 
> -Dave
>