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Electroforming
This
is part two of a multi-part series on electroforming. Click
here to go to part one.
Electroforming, which involves depositing a
layer of metal on the surface of a non-metallic surface (such as
glass), requires a bath of chemicals and a simple electric circuit.
Although it's possible to electroform
precious metals such as gold or silver directly onto glass, it is
easier to electroform copper onto glass. It's also safer to
work with copper -- both gold and silver require a bath that
contains the hazardous chemical cyanide. By contrast, the chemicals
used to electroform copper are less toxic and easier to find.
Start by gathering the necessary equipment.
The easiest way to do this is to purchase an electroforming kit that
already contains the essential items. These are sold by a
number of companies, including
Rio Grande and Dalmar
Plating.
A basic kit should include copper wire and
sheet, a rectifier (an electrical device that converts alternating
current to direct current), a clamp set, and an electroforming
copper solution. In addition, you will need electro-conductive
copper paint, which must be applied to the surface of the glass
being coated. This paint is sometimes included in kits, but
may need to be purchased separately. (One good source for the
paint is Safer Solutions
of Philadelphia.)
Once you've gathered all the necessary
equipment, you're ready to begin the process of electroplating.
Coming soon -- the basic
electroforming process, step by step.
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Copyright 2006 Brad Walker.
All rights reserved.
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