Homebrew PCBs

>
> My troubles only apply to the component print layer on the etched
> side of the board. I can get a nice clean print on an all copper
> area, and it works fine on a no-copper area, but near an area with
> traces it doesn't transfer well at all. I'm pretty sure this is due
> to the unevenness of the area preventing the toner from making
> contact evenly and I don't expect that it's "fixable".
>

try a soft material between the pcb and iron.
a big pad of silicone thermal conduction rubber would be perfect but i 
think
a piece of soft cloth would work too.
you propably need to heat ot longer.

if you have a clothes press (such a ugly big thing which you can use 
instead of a iron.)
(sorry, correction, this is only to be operated by a woman says the manual 
on the first page
so most likely you don't have one - ask around)

but these monsters have soft padding. maybe it would work.
i may try it some time.
probably you could get it very cheap, i can't imagine anyone wanting such 
a thing.

regards

st