pcb

yours is one of the more interesting posts on a builders forum, etching, come up and look at mine darling.

 

Its simpler to use this:

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=1918

IWS: Information With a Smile

 

But, yes, it's easy to etch (ah, one of my childhood hobbies...)

You need and etch-resist pen to draw out the tracks you wish to keep, and Ferric Chloride solution to etch the copper (nasty stuff - don't pour it down your SS sink whatever you do...)

Results can be variable - the tracks can look a bit uneven, but as long as they are the correct thickness for the current being carried, then all should be ok.

Photo-resist PCB can produce very professional results, but you need the software to design the layout, a printer to print it out onto clear acetate, and a UV exposure box...

 

If you want it to look nice or if you need up to 4 copies of a not too big design then try the cheapy service at
http://www.expresspcb.com/
They'll make it for you for not too much money.
It is very quick despite being in the States and the free design software is a pleasure to use.

 

In my experience, etch-resist pens produced very poor results, with parts of tracks etching through. I suppose it depends how chunky your tracks are. I'd go the photo-resist route that Devs mentions. You don't have to use CAD software, there are other methods. I'm sure you would find a school or college with a UV exposure box. I think you can use weak caustic soda solution as developer, and just about any solvent as stripper.

Don't let the ferric chloride get near aluminium!